WHAT PROPOSALS ARE IN THE PIPELINE FOR REFORMING CONDUCT OF MEPs AND LOBBYISTS

In the face of the bribery scandal that has hit the European Parliament, Ms. Diana Wallis, UK Liberal MEP and a Vice-President of the European Parliament with responsibility for transparency matters will lead a special cross-party panel to work on proposals for reform Parliamentary rules governing MEPs and Lobbyists. What is being considered: 1. The joint voluntary register of Lobbyists of the European Commission and the European Parliament (due to be implemented this coming June) would be made mandatory to ensure that those who lobby MEPs face tougher disclosure requirements and sanctions if they break the rules. 2. Creation of a legislative footprint on EU legislation that passes through Parliament. This would disclose who spoke to MEPs about possible changess to reports, opinions and amendments. 3. Overhaul of MEPs financial interests with a more regular review by Parliament to ensure the register is kept up to date. MEPs who fail to file a declaration of interests would also face tougher penalties. 4. Creation of a special 'ethics committee' to advise MEPs on possible conflicts of interest and a limit to what second jobs MEPs should be allowed to do. AALEP has already addressed the matter of 'ethics' and will address other points as the reform process unfolds.     

Add new comment