A tale of 82 plenary sessions
Key votes from the 2009-2014 European Parliament term analysed
VoteWatch Europe special policy brief 4/2014
Introduction
This special policy brief contains an analysis of key issues voted on by the European Parliament
in the 2009-2014 parliamentary term, as published in our monthly post-EP Plenary
newsletters. For each of these key votes we analysed which political groups formed the
winning majority, and which national delegations dissented from their political group's
position.
This compilation shows how the European Parliament has used its new-found powers in EU
policy-making after the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty, in December 2009.
We included the key legislative dossiers analysed by VoteWatch Europe during the course of
the 2009-2014 parliamentary term as well as some non-legislative dossiers that generated
significant debate inside and outside Parliament. This compilation does not provide an
exhaustive overview of all votes: due to the large number of votes which take place during
plenary sessions we only analyse what we consider to be the most interesting or important
ones.
This policy brief is organised using the policy area classification from www.votewatch.eu. All
the VoteWatch Europe EP Plenary newsletters, as well as all votes not covered by this report,
can be found on http://www.votewatch.eu/en/news.html.
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Contents
1.
Agriculture ...................................................................................................................................... 3
2.
Budget ............................................................................................................................................. 4
3.
Civil liberties, justice & home affairs ........................................................................................... 13
4.
Constitutional & inter-constitutional affairs ............................................................................... 19
5.
Economic & monetary affairs ...................................................................................................... 21
6.
Employment & social affairs ........................................................................................................ 33
7.
Environment & public health ....................................................................................................... 36
8.
Fisheries ........................................................................................................................................ 49
9.
Foreign & security policy .............................................................................................................. 53
10.
Gender equality ........................................................................................................................ 54
11.
Industry, research & energy ..................................................................................................... 56
12.
Internal market & consumer protection ................................................................................. 60
13.
International trade ................................................................................................................... 62
14.
Legal affairs............................................................................................................................... 67
15.
Transport & tourism ................................................................................................................. 69
VoteWatch Europe is an independent organisation set up to promote better debates and
greater transparency in EU decision-making, by providing easy access to, and analysis of, the
votes and other activities of the European Parliament (EP) and the EU Council of Ministers
(Council). VoteWatch uses the EU Institutions' own attendance, voting and activity data available through their websites - to give a full overview of MEP and Member State activities.
VoteWatch Europe is funded by grants from Adessium Foundation, Fondation Charles Leopold
Mayer/Citizens for Europe, the Open Society Foundations and the Joseph Rowntree Charitable
Trust. It is supported by Burson-Marsteller and White and Case.
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1. Agriculture
Reform of the Common Agriculture Policy was approved
20 November 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/financing-management-and-monitoring-of-the-cap-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-legislative-resolut.html
The new Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) was adopted by the European Parliament,
following the reaching of a compromise on the most important issues between the
Parliament, the Council and the Commission in June 2013.
The five legislative reports adopted by the MEPs propose a reform of the current CAP on
financing, management and monitoring of the CAP, direct payments to farmers, rural
development, and the agricultural market. The reformed CAP which will put more emphasis
on a fairer and more transparent distribution of EU subsidies among EU Member States and
farmers, and enhanced environmental protection.
The report on the financing, management and monitoring of the CAP was approved by 500
votes to 177, with 10 abstentions, being supported mainly by the EPP, S&D, ALDE and ECR
groups. The S&D votes were however split, as 6 delegations (UK, the Netherlands, Denmark,
Germany, Sweden and Austria) joined the Greens/EFA, GUE-NGL and EFD in voting against.
Click here to see how all MEPs voted.
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2. Budget
MEPs finally approve 2014-2020 Multiannual Financial Framework
19 November 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/multiannual-financial-framework-2014-2020-draft-legislativeresolution-vote-consent-consent.html
The EP's consent comes after the finalisation of lengthy and tough negotiations with the
Member States. The multiannual budget will shrunk in absolute value compared to the
previous 2007-2013 interval and will now amount to 960 billion euros in commitments and
908 billion euros in payments.
However, the MEPs succeeded in obtaining a number of important concessions from the
Member States: flexibility between budget years and budget lines, the promise of the creation
of a high-level group on own resources of the EU and a revision clause that states that the
Commission will have to bring forward a review of the MFF in 2016. The latter provision is
also aimed at aligning the future duration of the MFF with the 5-year political cycles of the EU
institutions.
The text as a whole was supported by a comfortable majority (EPP, S&D, ALDE, ECR), passing
with 537 votes in favour to 126 against, and 19 abstentions. The opposition came mainly from
the Greens/EFA, GUE-NGL and EFD groups.
Click here to see how each MEP voted. Once the MFF was approved, the MEPs voted on
specific EU funding programmes, which were also intensely negotiated with the Council in the
last couple of years.
Renewed call for revision of the EP seat
23 October 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/draft-general-budget-of-the-european-union-for-thefinancial-year-2014-all-sections-motion-for-resol-29.html
MEPs called on the Council to consider the elaboration of a roadmap to a single seat for the
EP, in order to make savings to the EU budget. A majority of MEPs in all groups voted in favour,
renewing their support for the single seat proposal. However, French MEPs from EPP, S&D,
ALDE and GUE-NGL voted differently from the majority position in their respective groups,
voting in line with the national position of France. Within the EPP, most of the German,
Spanish, Romanian, Estonian, Greek and Croatian Members also voted against. Click here to
see how each MEP voted.
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MEPs ask for bigger 2014 EU budget
23 October 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/draft-general-budget-of-the-european-union-for-thefinancial-year-2014-all-sections-motion-for-resol-40.html
MEPs voted to increase the 2014 EU budget to €136.1 billion, rejecting the Council's proposed
reduction in growth and jobs spending. The European Parliament's resolution pushed for an
increased allocation of resources for research, development, the digital agenda,
entrepreneurship and unemployment.
The resolution was passed by a large majority formed by the EPP, S&D and ALDE groups. 480
MEPs voted in favour and 119 against, with 86 abstentions. Interestingly, a number of MEPs
from the majority groups defected and voted against or abstained, such as the Swedish EPP,
British and Danish S&D and Swedish ALDE MEPs. Most of the members of the ECR, GUE-NGL
and EFD groups voted against it, while the Greens/EFA group abstained. Click here to see how
each MEP voted.
First guidelines for the 2014 Budget
6 February 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/guidelines-for-the-2014-budget-sections-other-than-thecommission-motion-for-a-resolution-vote-resol.html
The resolution adopted by the European Parliament regarding the 2014 budgetary procedure
was supported by six of the seven political families, the only one that voted against being
GUE-NGL. A majority of MEPs (with most EPP Members opposed) supported the amendment
that asked for a roadmap by June 2013 on the multiple seats of the EP, and for up-to-date
figures and information on the financial and environmental impact of the current multiple
seat arrangement. On the other hand, the amendments proposed by ECR, regarding the
reduction of the administrative budgets in the EU institutions and of the staff pensions in line
with future long-term demographic trends, were all rejected.
The finally adopted text focuses on the idea that real savings can be made by identifying
overlaps and inefficiencies across budgetary lines and reducing administrative burdens.
However, the MEPs consider an undifferentiated approach to the institutions' budgets as
being counter-productive and in this sense they recognize the EEAS needs an enhanced
network of missions in order to meet the EU's political priorities.
Amended 2012 budget: more money for cohesion, Erasmus and research
12 December 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/draft-amending-budget-no-6-2012-revenue-from-ownresources-and-other-resources-increase-in-payment-a.html
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MEPs approved a draft amending budget to dispose of an extra €6bn to pay outstanding bills
from 2012, out of a total shortcoming of €9bn requested by the Commission. The money will
go mainly to cohesion policy and rural development, but also to the Erasmus programme and
research projects. A majority formed by the EPP, S&D, ALDE and GUE-NGL groups voted in
favour of the resolution, while most ECR and EFD MEPs voted against. The Greens/EFA and
some S&D MEPs abstained. This bill was previously approved in the Council, with the British,
Danish, Dutch and Swedish delegations voting against.
Of those MEPs belonging to the main governing party in those four Member States, only the
British Conservative MEPs followed their national Government's position:
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Denmark (S&D): 0 in favour; 0 against; 4 abstention; 0 didn't vote
United Kingdom (ECR): 0 in favour; 22 against; 0 abstention; 0 didn't vote
Netherlands (ALDE): 3 in favour; 0 against; 0abstention; 0 didn't vote
Sweden (EPP): 3 in favour; 0 against; 0 abstention; 2 didn't vote
New version of the 2013 Budget approved
12 December 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/new-general-budget-of-the-european-union-for-thefinancial-year-2013-all-sections-motion-for-a-resol.html
MEPs approved the new draft budget for 2013, after the Parliament and the Council failed to
agree on the first version in November. A majority formed by the EPP, S&D and ALDE groups
approved the resolution. Most MEPs from the Greens/EFA, GUE/NGL, ECR and EFD groups
voted against. The package includes a budget for 2013 worth €132.8bn in payments and
€150.9bn in commitments.
If we look at those MEPs who belong to the main governing party in those four countries, only
the British Conservative (ECR) MEPs joined their government in opposing the new 2013 draft
budget. MEPs from the main governing party in Austria, the Netherlands and Sweden had the
opposite view to that of their own governments (and so voted in favour of the budget).
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Austria (S&D): 5 in favour; 0 against; 0 abstentions; 0 didn't vote
United Kingdom (ECR): 0 in favour; 22 against; 0 abstentions; 4 didn't vote
Netherlands (ALDE): 3 in favour; 0 against; 0 abstention; 0 didn't vote
Sweden (EPP): 4 in favour; 0 against; 0 abstentions; 1 didn't vote
Interestingly, MEPs from the UK's junior coalition partner, the Liberal Democrats, voted in
favour of the budget, while MEPs from the Labour Party, in opposition in London, voted
against the budget alongside British Conservatives.
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Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020: research, competitiveness and own resources
23 October 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/multiannual-financial-framework-for-the-years-2014-2020interim-report-vote-resolution-as-a-whole-co.html
MEPs adopted a resolution laying down the priorities of the EP for the next MFF. MEPs
stressed the need to increase the budget for research and competitiveness and warned the
Council not to make any cuts in these areas. Another key subject covered by the resolution
was EU own resources, with MEPs demanding a more transparent and fairer method of
financing the budget.
The text as a hole was supported by a majority of EPP, S&D, ALDE and Green MEPs. Votes
against the resolution were cast by the ECR, EFD and GUE-NGL groups.
EU budget 2013: growth and jobs
23 October 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/general-budget-of-the-european-union-for-the-financialyear-2013-all-sections-motion-for-a-resolutio-19.html
MEPs rejected cuts demanded by Council in the 2013 EU budget, in order to protect EU
programmes such as Erasmus Mundus and the European Social Fund that in the EP's view
could help boost growth and jobs. The EP opposes the €1.9 billion of cuts proposed by
Member States, saying that research, entrepreneurship and employment measures are the
major areas that could support economic growth and the labour market.
The resolution which was adopted also gives backing to regional policy and agriculture. The
text as a whole was supported by a majority of MEPs from the EPP, S&D and ALDE groups,
while most of the members of ECR, GUE-NGL groups and half of the EFD group voted against
it. The Greens/EFA group abstained. See the breakdown of the vote here.
Freezing of the 2013 budget
MEPs from the ECR group proposed an amendment (no.21) asking for a "freeze on
Commission spending for 2012, with any increases in funding for Europe 2020 for 2013 being
accompanied by savings elsewhere in the budget". The amendment was rejected by a large
majority of MEPs formed by the EPP, S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA, GUE-NGL groups. The votes
in favour of this proposal came from ECR and EFD groups, but also from the British, Swedish
and Danish MEPs in the S&D group.
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EP staff reform
Amendment 29, also drafted by ECR group, asked for a reform of the EP staff policy "in looking
for long term efficiencies in its staffing budget by the year 2020". The amendment was
rejected by a majority of 403 MEPs from the EPP, S&D and GUE-NGL groups. However, there
were 44 Members from the S&D group, especially from Italy, United Kingdom, Germany and
Sweden who voted in favour of EP staff reform, along with Members of the ECR, EFD and
Green groups.
Renewed call for Single Seat of the EP
In paragraph 90 of the budget resolution, MEPs asked the Council to "start elaborating a roadmap with the Parliament towards a single seat and a more efficient use of Parliament's
working places [...] by 30 June 2013". A large majority of the MEPs (518) voted in favour of
this paragraph. The views of the EPP MEPs were split, with 133 (mainly from Spain, Poland,
Portugal and Hungary) voting in favour of a single EP seat and 106 (mainly from Italy, France,
Germany and Romania) voting against. Click here to see the breakdown of the vote.
2013 EU Budget should not be capped
14 March 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/general-guidelines-for-the-2013-budget-section-iiicommission-motion-for-a-resolution-vote-resolutio.html
MEPs warned Member States that the EU's 2013 budget should not be capped so that the
Commission can honour its contractual obligations. EP's position was supported by
an overwhelming majority of Members, though the GUE/NGL, EFD groups voted against and
the Greens/EFA abstained.
MEPs renew call for a single seat for the EP
16 February 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/guidelines-for-the-2013-budget-sections-other-than-thecommission-motion-for-a-resolution-am-2-amend.html
In a report giving the EP's views on the guidelines of the 2013 EU budget, a majority of MEPs
(329) voted in favour of Amendment 2, which stated that "[the EP] Believes that the real and
biggest saving could be made by having a single seat for the European Parliament; encourages
therefore that the situation be evaluated without further delay".
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EU 2012 budget
26 October 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/parliament-s-position-on-the-2012-draft-budget-as-modifiedby-the-council-motion-for-a-resolution-vo.html
The adoption of the Parliament's position on the Union's 2012 budget saw important
disagreements between the MEPs. The ECR and GUE/NGL groups voted against, while ALDE
and Greens/EFA groups abstained at the final vote, as they found the scope was not ambitious
enough. A majority of MEPs in both main groups (EPP and S&D) voted in favour of
Parliament's position, thus ensuring it was passed. Click here for breakdown of the votes and
the text.
Centre-left fails to block continuation of research on nuclear energy: an amendment by the
Greens/EFA (am 18, part 2), and supported also by the S&D and GUE/NGL groups, calling for
a cut of spending on nuclear energy research was defeated by a centre-right coalition
(EPP+ALDE+ECR). Click here for breakdown of the votes and text
Centre-right defends tobacco industry aid: an amendment by the GUE/NGL (am. 37), and
supported by the Greens/EFA, ALDE and most of the S&D members, calling for an end to aid
given to tobacco industries in developing countries, was defeated by an opposing majority
made up of the EPP group and a defecting faction of the S&D group. Click here for breakdown
of the votes and text
Deep divisions among members: an amendment (am. 26) calling on the Parliament to save
money by reducing the number of business class airplane tickets it pays for MEPs was adopted
with strong support from the centre-left and the ECR, while most of the EPP, as well as half
of the ALDE group voted against it. Click here for breakdown of the votes and text.
EP votes for below-inflation budget increase some say even that's too much
6 April 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/estimates-of-revenue-and-expenditure-for-2012-section-iparliament-motion-for-a-resolution-vote-reso.html
Voting on its 2012 budget estimates (the first step in the annual budget process), the
Parliament approved a 2.3% increase in its own budget, below the current EU-27 inflation
rate of 2.8% but higher than the Council, which is proposing to reduce its own budget for next
year. The decision was supported by a pro-integration coalition (EPP+S&D+ALDE) and
opposed by the remainder of the political groups (Greens/EFA, ECR, GUE/NGL, EFD), who
wanted a more significant cut in the budget. Click to see the breakdown of votes and more
information.
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EU budget for 2011 was adopted by the Parliament
15 December 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/parliament-s-position-on-the-new-2011-draft-budget-asmodified-by-the-council-motion-for-a-resolutio.html
The MEPs agreed to the new form of the budget proposed by the Commission, within the
limits set by the Council of the EU. More funding for youth, innovation, the Middle East peace
process and Palestine were included in the 2011 budget. However, the MEPs also adopted a
resolution stating their position on the framework which will be set for the future negotiations
on the Multi-Annual Financial Perspectives, pushing for a stronger role of the Parliament in
the discussions with the Member States and the Commission. The resolution was supported
by an EPP+S&D+ALDE majority, while ECR, the Greens/EFA and the radical left - GUE/NGL
have opposed it. Click to see the distribution of votes and text.
Parliament's position on the 2011 draft budget as modified by the Council - all sections
20 October 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/parliament-s-position-on-the-2011-draft-budget-as-modifiedby-the-council-all-sections-motion-for-a--21.html
The 2011 Budget was voted by Parliament, which significantly modified the shape proposed
by the Council. Concretely, the Parliament rejected most of the cuts proposed by the Council
and asked for negotiations over the future funding sources of the Union. The text was pushed
through by the main pro-European political groups (EPP, S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA). The ECR
and EFD voted against, while the GUE/NGL abstained. Click to see the distributions of votes
and text.
Amending budget no 1/2010: Section I - Parliament
9 May 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/amending-budget-no-1-2010-section-i-parliament-motionfor-a-resolution-vote-resolution-text-as-a-who.html
The European Parliament's budget increased to cope with additional workload following the
entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty. The move was supported by the political forces at the
centre of the political spectrum (EPP+ALDE+S&D+Greens/ALE), but opposed by those on the
left and right sides (GUE/NGL, ECR, EFD). See distribution of votes and text.
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Financial support for Germany
9 March 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/mobilisation-of-the-european-globalisation-adjustment-fundgermany-redundancies-motion-for-a-resolut.html
A resolution was passed for the workers who lost their job at the Karmann car manufacturing
group in Germany. The euro sceptical groups from the right, EFD and ECR, expressed a more
unified opposition, while the liberal (ALDE) MEPs from Germany chose to abstain
(see distribution of votes and text). The amount of EU aid approved is of over € 6 million.
Financial support for Lithuania
9 March 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/mobilisation-of-the-european-globilisation-adjustment-fundlithuania-construction-of-buildings-motio.html
The British Conservatives MEPs (members of the ECR group in the EP) voted against the EU's
financial support, through the European Globalization Adjustment Fund, for the workers in
Lithuania who got unemployed, particularly in the construction sector. However, the
resolution was carried with the votes of both their colleagues in the ECR group (mostly from
Eastern European countries) and of the rest of the European political groups (see distribution
of votes and text). The amount of EU aid approved is a little over € 1 million.
European Parliament to employ more staff
25 February 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/estimates-of-revenue-and-expenditure-for-amendingbudget-1-2010-section-i-european-parliament-motion.html
The MEPs adopted a modification of this institution's budget so that more staff can be
employed following the increased powers of the EP provided in the Lisbon Treaty. The
decision was carried with the support of the group of the European People’s Party (EPP), the
socialists and democrats group (S&D) and the Greens/European Free Alliance group (G/EFA).
The liberals (ALDE) were equally divided among themselves on this matter, while the radical
left (GUE/NGL), the conservatives (ECR) and the right euro-sceptics (EFD) voted against. Check
here how each MEP voted.
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Draft general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2010 as modified by the
Council (all sections)
17 December 2009
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/report-laszlo-surjan-vladimir-manka-a7-0083-2009-draftgeneral-budget-of-the-european-union-for-the--5.html
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3. Civil liberties, justice & home affairs
EP gives green light to new Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF)
13 March 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/asylum-migration-and-integration-fund-draft-legislativeresolution-single-vote-ordinary-legislative-.html
The European Parliament approved a deal with national governments to establish an Asylum,
Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF), for the next seven years (2014-2020). The main aims
of the new financial instrument will be to contribute to more efficient management of
migration flows, as well as to the development and strengthening of the Common European
Asylum System.
The proposal creates a single fund, with a total budget of €3.1 billion, and replaces previous
funds. €2.4 billion shall be allocated to the Member States, out of which a percentage of at
least 20% is supposed to cover legal migration, and at least 20% to cover asylum measures.
The report establishing the AMIF passed with a large majority, by 419 votes to 44 against.
Most Members from the GUE-NGL and EFD groups voted against.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
EP adopts personal data protection package
12 March 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/protection-of-individuals-with-regard-to-the-processing-ofpersonal-data-draft-legislative-resolutio.html
The European Parliament adopted a major data protection reform package, which
aims to update the EU legislation in light of the technological and digital developments of the
last two decades.
The proposed regulation, which would replace the 1995 data protection
directive, harmonises 28 national data protection rules into one directly applicable and
enforceable body of law. Under the proposed rules, companies and public administrations
would be compelled to ensure that the collection and management of personal data is
compliant with EU citizens' fundamental right to privacy. The proposed regulation also
includes a number of actionable rights for the citizens, such as the ability to use and reuse
one's data across interoperable applications, the right to rectification and erasure of personal
data, the right to object to further processing of one's personal data, as well as the right to
information and to lodge complaints.
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The regulation was adopted by a large majority, passing by 621 votes for to 10 against, and
22 abstentions. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
The directive is set to replace a 2008 framework decision on cross-border data processing in
police and judicial cooperation. It aims to protect data transfers, both domestic and crossborder ones, and to improve the processing of data by police and judicial authorities in
criminal matters.
The directive was adopted by 371 votes in favour to 276 against. Most EPP, ECR and EFD
Members voted against. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
Visas for Moldovan citizens abolished
27 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/visa-requirements-for-third-countries-nationals-draftlegislative-resolution-single-vote-ordinary-le.html
Moldova will soon become the first Eastern Partnership country to be granted visa-free access
to the 26 Schengen Member States. The European Parliament appreciates the country's
considerable efforts in recent years to implement difficult reforms. By fulfilling all the
objectives laid down in the Visa Liberalisation Action Plan, Moldovan citizens who own
biometric passports, will have the right to travel to, and stay in, the Schengen area for up to
90 days (within a 180-days period). A vast majority of MEPs, from all groups except EFD,
supported the report, which passed with 460 votes in favour to 40 against.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
The MEPs backed law to make the EU more attractive to foreign students and researchers
25 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/conditions-of-entry-and-residence-of-third-countrynationals-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-legis.html
According to a legislative report approved by the MEPs, non-EU researchers and students will
have the possibility to remain in the EU for an extra period of one year and a half after
completing their research or studies, to seek job opportunities. The Commission´s proposal,
amended by the MEPs, aims to increase incentives for foreign students, researchers, trainees
and volunteers to come to, and remain within, the EU. The report was adopted by a strong
majority, with 578 votes in favour 79 votes. (Click here to see votes).
While the Commission proposed partial access to the labour market for third country
students, the MEPs voted for full access, arguing that it would help students cover the costs
VoteWatch Europe 
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of their studies. Most of the MEPs voted in favour, with only the ECR and EFD groups voting
against. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
The EP adopts legislation regarding non-EU seasonal workers rights
5 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/conditions-of-entry-and-residence-of-third-countrynationals-for-the-purposes-of-seasonal-employment.html
The European Parliament gave green light to the EU's first Directive on working and
living rights of third-country seasonal workers. The legislation was already agreed on by the
three institutions in trialogue last year. It aims at improving the status of non-EU seasonal
workers in the EU, by protecting them against abuse, and guaranteeing their rights to proper
living and working conditions. The number of allowed seasonal workers in an EU country is
decided at national level, however, the Member States will have to respect the maximum
length of the stay of the seasonal workers, as set at EU level.
The report passed with 498 votes in favour to 56 against and 68 abstentions.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
EPP, ECR and a majority of S&D push through controversial PNR agreement
19 April 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/eu-usa-agreement-on-the-use-and-transfer-of-pnr-to-the-usdepartment-of-homeland-security-draft-legi.html
The controversial PNR agreement, which governs the transfer of personal data of EU air
passengers to the US authorities, was given the formal consent of the EP. The EPP and ECR
groups, as well as a majority of S&D MEPs voted in favour.
The Socialist MEPs supporting the agreement came mainly from Italy, Spain and the UK, while
those opposing it came from Germany and France. On the other hand, the ALDE, Greens/EFA
and GUE/NGL groups opposed it. Within the ALDE group, however, most MEPs coming from
Denmark, Finland, Ireland and Romania broke away from the group line and voted in favour
of the agreement.
Following the vote, the rapporteur, Sophie in t'Veld (ALDE, NL), asked that her name be
removed from the report, as she had recommended the rejection of the document.
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EPP opposes new rules on transparency
15 December 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/public-access-to-european-parliament-council-andcommission-documents-draft-legislative-resolution-v.html
While amending, within the co-decision procedure, Regulation 1049/2011 that regulates
public access to documents held by EU institutions, the Parliament inserted a number of
provisions aimed at making it easier for citizens to access documents. Among other things,
the MEPs have broadened the definition of a “document”, stating that any data content,
whatever its medium (written on paper or stored in electronic form or as a sound, visual or
audiovisual recording), concerning a matter falling within the sphere of responsibility of an
EU institution, body, office or agency would be considered a document.
The EPP was the only political group that opposed the new rules, though some of its members
voted in favour or abstained. The text will now be negotiated with the Commission and the
Council.
Centre-left coalition wins final vote on protection for refugees but is divided over
amendments
6 April 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/granting-and-withdrawing-international-protection-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-legislative-reso.html
In its first reading vote on amendments to the Directive on minimum standards for
procedures in Member States for granting and withdrawing international protection for
refugees, a centre-left coalition (ALDE+S&D+Greens/EFA+GUE/NGL) narrowly claimed victory
at the final vote, gathering 314 votes "for", compared to the 306 "against" consisting of
EPP+ECR+EFD. However, the victories on the separate votes on 13 key amendments were
almost equally split between left and right. This was due to the ALDE group choosing sides on
a case-by-case basis. Click to see the breakdown of votes (votes on amendments are also
available) and more information.
The SWIFT agreement ratified
8 July 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/agreement-between-the-eu-and-the-usa-on-the-processingand-transfer-of-financial-messaging-data-from.html
The Parliament approved the agreement between the EU and the US on transfer of data
regarding the financial transactions of EU citizens. The House had rejected the initial form of
this agreement earlier this year, but has now agreed to its amended form that provides
VoteWatch Europe 
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additional guarantees aimed at ensuring the proper use of the data by the US authorities,
such as the delegation of a special EU official to Washington to supervise these operations.
The legislative resolution was supported by an EPP+S&D+ALDE+ECR majority, while the
Greens/EFA and the radical left - GUE/NGL have opposed it. Also on the opposing side were
the British members of the EFD group, as well as 2 Italian ALDE MEPs, and a small number of
German MEPs of the EPP and S&D groups. Notably, the ALDE and S&D groups, after they have
rejected the initial agreement in February, have now voted in favour of the amended form,
considering that this new deal provides the right balance between the right to privacy of EU
citizens and the need to have proper tools to fight terrorism.
However, the GUE/NGL, Greens/EFA and EFD groups kept their initial position expressed in
February against the agreement, considering that the amended proposal still does not comply
with their requests for the protection of privacy of EU citizens, since their personal transaction
data will be processed by a third state (see distribution of votes and text).
Romania and Bulgaria closer to Schengen area
17 June 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/application-of-the-provisions-of-the-schengen-acquisrelating-to-the-schengen-information-system-in-.html
Parliament approved a report that says that their branches of the SIS system have reached
satisfactory levels of data protection, which means a first step towards including these
member states in the Schengen area. The decision was taken by a comfortable majority,
though most of the MEPs from the ECR, GUE/NGL and EFD groups abstained (see distribution
of votes and text).
Free movement of persons with long-stay visa
9 March 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/movement-of-persons-with-a-long-stay-visa-draft-legislativeresolution-vote-legislative-resolution-t.html
A non-EU national staying in one of the Member States on a long-stay visa will be allowed to
travel to most other Member States (except for UK, Ireland and Denmark) for three months
in any six-month period under the same conditions as the holder of a residence permit, under
a new regulation approved by Parliament. The resolution adopted at first reading was carried
in spite of some opposition made by the MEPs from the right: the EFD group and half of the
ECR group - mostly British Conservatives (see distribution of votes and text).
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European Crime Prevention Network (EUCPN)
24 November 2009
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/report-sonia-alfano-european-crime-prevention-networkeucpn-draft-legislative-resolution-initiative-.html
Rules on the confidentiality of Europol information
24 November 2009
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/report-timothy-kirkhope-rules-on-the-confidentiality-ofeuropol-information-draft-legislative-resolu.html
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4. Constitutional & inter-constitutional affairs
Final votes in committees will be recorded
26 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/amendment-of-rules-166-final-vote-and-195-3-voting-incommittee-of-parliament-s-rules-of-procedure-p.html
In a landmark decision, MEPs voted to extend the number of cases in which votes must take
place by roll call (or recorded) vote. When voting by roll call, the vote of each individual MEP
is recorded in the official minutes. Under the adopted Rule changes, this will be extended to
all final votes on a report in Plenary, and all final legislative votes in EP committees. The Rule
changes on committee votes do not extend to amendments, but MEPs will continue to have
the possibility to request roll call votes for these as well.
VoteWatch Europe welcomes this move by MEPs to bring greater transparency to the EP's
legislative process. The changes take effect from the start of the March 2014 Plenary
session. The report was adopted by a vast majority, with 617 votes in favour to 23 against and
12 abstentions.
Click here to see how each MEP voted. Read here our press release.
Citizens’ initiative
15 December 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/citizens-initiative-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-legislativeresolution-ordinary-legislative-pr.html
The European citizens now have the right of proposing legislative initiatives to the
Commission This proposal was supported by all political groups and is considered an
important step towards a strong participatory democracy at EU level. Upon adopting this
initiative, the European citizens will have more means to making their voice heard to the
European institutions and be directly involved in the European decision-making process. Click
to see the distribution of votes and text.
Content: Parliament's main aim was to make the procedure as simple and user-friendly as
possible. Thus, the minimum number of Member States from which signatures must be
gathered was lowered to one fourth. The proposal also establishes a "citizens committee",
consisting of individuals from a number of seven Member States. The purpose of this
committee will be encouraging the citizens to formulate proposals of European relevance and
will be able to register the initiative with the Commission. Even if it is an initiative of the
European citizens, Member States will have the right to verify the signatures of citizens as
there is no electoral authority at the European Union level to carry out this operation. All
signatories must be citizens of the European Union and old enough to vote in European
VoteWatch Europe 
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elections. According to the Lisbon Treaty, every citizen has the right to participate in the
democratic life of the European Union through a citizens' initiative. This procedure offers
citizens the opportunity to directly contact the Commission, giving them a right of initiative
similar to that exercised by the European Parliament and the Council.
New composition of the EP by way of an inter-governmental conference (IGC)
6 May 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/decision-not-to-convene-a-convention-for-the-revision-ofthe-treaties-with-regard-to-transitional-me.html
The resolution adopted by the EP concludes that there is no need for a convention in order
for 18 additional MEPs to take office as stipulated in the Lisbon Treaty. However, the 18 new
MEPs will need the approval of an IGC and their member states. The resolution was voted in
the EP against the background of opposition from the Greens/ALE and GUE/NGL. (Distribution
of votes and text).
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5. Economic & monetary affairs
EP takes important step in the direction of banking union
15 April 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/resolution-of-credit-institutions-and-certain-investmentfirms-in-the-framework-of-a-single-resoluti.html
The European Parliament (EP) approved a major legislative package which aims to better
equip banking sectors in the EU for potential failures, as well as to ensure adequate protection
for the taxpayers. The package, which complements the single supervisory mechanism
legislation (adopted by the EP in September 2013), consists of two reports dealing with
troubled banks, and one updating the deposit guarantee scheme.
The legislative package establishes a resolution authority, which would determine whether
an institution could fail. It also creates a resolution fund for failing banks. In the event of bank
failure in EU member states, new rules will be applied, which would ensure that banks would
not rely heavily on public interventions. Instead, a bail-in regime would apply first and banks
would rely firstly on equity holders. If such measures would not suffice, an intervention from
the resolution fund will be possible. To this aim, banks will be required to finance national
reserve funds.
A single resolution fund worth 55 billion Euro shall be financed by banks in the banking union
(Eurozone countries and possibly opt-ins), and established over an 8-year period. Countries
outside the banking union will set up their own fund, amounting to 1% of covered deposits
within 10 years.
All three reports were adopted with large majorities. The report on the creation of the single
resolution fund passed by 570 votes in favour, 88 against and 13 abstentions. The winning
majority was composed of the EPP, S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA and ECR groups. Most EFD and
GUE-NGL MEPs voted against. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
The second report sets new rules to better prepare banks for cases of systemic crisis and
failure. It was supported by the same groups and passed with 584 votes in favour, 80 against
and 10 abstentions. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
The report updating the deposit guarantee scheme also gathered a large majority, but the
final vote was not by roll-call.
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Prevention of the use of the financial system for the purpose of money laundering and
terrorist financing
11 March 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/prevention-of-the-use-of-the-financial-system-for-thepurpose-of-money-laundering-and-terrorist-fina.html
Following the Commission proposal for a revision of the EU anti-money laundering (AML)
legislation, the EP adopted two reports aimed at strengthening the AML framework, yet
making it more flexible.
The revised AML Directive, which applies to all financial institutions, as well as other actors
(including casinos), proposes tighter rules regarding disclosure of ownership, for an efficient
fight against money laundering and terrorist financing. To this aim, the EP calls for a public
register which would list clearer and more accessible information of beneficial owners
(owners of companies and trusts). The report passed with a great majority of 643 votes in
favour to 30 against. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
The AML Directive was complemented by the Funds Transfer Regulation. This amended
regulation lays down rules for enhancing the transparency of fund transfers, both domestic
and cross border ones, with the aim of easing the tracking of electronic transfers of funds,
made by criminals and terrorists. The report passed with 627 votes in favour to 33 against,
with support from all EP groups, with the exception of EFD, which voted against, and GUENGL, which abstained. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
MEPs agree to mandatory automatic exchange of information in the field of taxation
11 December 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/mandatory-automatic-exchange-of-information-in-the-fieldof-taxation-draft-legislative-resolution-vo.html
The European Parliament approved the Commission's proposal to extend mandatory
collection and exchange of data between EU Member States, with the aim of further reducing
tax evasion.
The report passed (360 votes to 59 against), with a large number of MEPs abstaining from the
final vote (287). More specifically, the EPP and ALDE groups votes in favour, while most S&D,
Greens/EFA and GUE-NGL Members abstained, as they believed the final shape of the text
was too weak. The right groups ECR and EFD had split votes.
VoteWatch Europe 
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A coalition formed by EPP, ALDE, ECR and GUE-NGL succeeded in passing an amendment
calling for the automatic exchange of data to fall under the interpretation of national law.
However, the part of the amendment which promoted the maintaining of the "availability
principle", according to which a country will share only the information it wishes to collect,
failed to pass, the centre-to-left groups (ALDE, S&D, Greens/EFA and GUE-NGL) voting it
down. Click here and here to see how each MEP voted.
European Banking Authority and prudential supervision of credit institutions
12 September 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/european-banking-authority-and-prudential-supervision-ofcredit-institutions-draft-legislative-resol-2.html
The European Parliament (EP) voted through a key legislative package in first reading aimed
at establishing one of the three pillars of the banking union - the Single Supervision
Mechanism (SSM). The reports were adopted in plenary following negotiations between the
EP and the European Central Bank (ECB).
The inter-institutional agreement between the two institutions increases the EP's oversight
powers over the ECB, as MEPs will have more access to information and will be entitled to
hold hearings with representatives of the Supervisory Board. The European Parliament will
also have to approve the head of the SSM.
The final text was supported by an overwhelming majority of MEPs. Only the GUE-NGL group,
the Polish and Czech ECR delegations and part of the EFD group voted against. Click here to
see how each MEP voted.
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MEPs vote to increase supervision and responsibility of EU banks
16 April 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/prudential-requirements-for-credit-institutions-andinvestment-firms-draft-legislative-resolution-vo.html
MEPs passed, by a large majority, a package consisting of the Capital Requirements
Regulation (CRR) and a fourth edition of the Capital Requirements Directive (CRD IV). MEPs in
the ECR and GUE/NGL groups abstained.
The new regulations require that banks increase the quality and the quality of the capital they
hold at all times to make sure they can pay depositors and creditors in an emergency. The
rules also create a platform for greater supervision of the banking sector, making information
on profits, taxes paid and subsidies received country-by-country, turnover and number of
employees available to the supervisory authorities of the members states they operate in
(who will collaborate with the European Banking Authority). From 2014, these figures should
also be reported to the European Commission and from 2015 made fully public.
Another key provision of the package concerned the capping of bankers' bonuses with the
stated aim of curbing speculative risk-taking. Under the new rules which were approved, the
basic salary-to-bonus ratio will be 1:1 and may be raised to a maximum of 1:2 if approved by
at least 66% of shareholders owning half the shares represented at a shareholder meeting, or
of 75% of votes if there is no quorum.
The new rules also create incentives for more credit to be offered to SMEs.
Click here for more information and here to see the breakdown of votes by MEP.
Centrist coalition votes to strengthen economic and budgetary surveillance of Member
States in the euro area
12 March 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/economic-and-budgetary-surveillance-of-member-stateswith-serious-difficulties-with-respect-to-their-2.html
Parliament adopted a legislative resolution laying down tougher rules concerning the
economic and budgetary surveillance of Member States in the euro area experiencing or
threatened with serious difficulties with respect to their financial stability. The resolution was
adopted by a centrist coalition of EPP, S&D, ALDE and Greens/EFA. It was opposed by EFD,
ECR and GUE-NGL.
However, S&D MEPs from Belgium voted against and an important number of Italian EPP
MEPs abstained. The resolution is part of the so-called "2-pack" which adds rules to economic
governance package adopted in 2011. Back then, left-of-the-centre largely opposed the
VoteWatch Europe 
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regulations, but this time S&D and Greens/EFA voted in favour, presumably because the
resolution puts greater emphasis on the role of growth and employment indicators when
monitoring economic performance of member states.
A common system of value added tax
7 February 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/common-system-of-value-added-tax-and-a-quick-reactionmechanism-against-vat-fraud-draft-legislative-.html
All the political groups within the European Parliament agreed on the adoption of a draft for
a legislative resolution regarding a common system of value added tax. By this, the MEPs
recognize the importance of significantly improve Member States' chances to effectively
tackling complex fraud schemes, such as carrousel fraud, and of reducing otherwise
irreparable financial losses. In order to deal with possible new forms of fraud in the future, it
is also foreseen that other anti-fraud measures could be authorised and established under a
Quick Reaction Mechanism (QRM).
EP adopts tougher rules for credit rating agencies
16 January 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/credit-rating-agencies-draft-legislative-resolution-votelegislative-resolution-ordinary-legislative-2.html
MEPs adopted a legislative resolution in first reading regarding new rules applicable to credit
rating agencies. The text stipulates that unsolicited sovereign debt ratings should be issued
only on set dates and enables private investors to sue the agencies for negligence. Also,
agencies' stakes in rated firms is to be capped so as to reduce conflicts of interest. Moreover,
the text underlines that ratings agencies must not seek to influence state policies, and
agencies should not advocate policy changes. The majority that adopted the legislative
resolution was formed by EPP, S&D, ALDE and Greens/EFA groups.
Enhanced cooperation in the area of the creation of a financial transaction tax
12 December 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/enhanced-cooperation-on-the-financial-transaction-tax-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-approval-con.html
In a legislative resolution, the European Parliament approved a Council decision authorising
enhanced cooperation for the creation of a common system of financial transaction tax (FTT).
VoteWatch Europe 
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The majority that voted in favour was formed by the EPP, S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA and
GUE/NGL groups. ALDE representatives from Sweden and Denmark voted against, as did the
ECR and EFD groups.
Markets in financial instruments
26 October 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/markets-in-financial-instruments-and-repeal-of-directive2004-39-ec-draft-legislative-resolution-vot.html
MEPs passed this resolution, which establishes new rules for the financial markets. The
uniform rules on trading would apply to almost all financial instruments such as bonds,
structured finance products and derivatives that can be traded on regulated markets. A large
majority of the EP voted in favour (495 MEPs), with all groups, except the GUE-NGL group,
supporting the resolution.
Minimum EU-wide corporate tax rejected by MEPs
11 September 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/common-system-of-taxation-applicable-to-interest-androyalty-payments-draft-legislative-resolution-v.html
MEPs voted in favour of a Directive of the Council (consultation procedure) on a common
system of taxation applicable to interest and royalties payments made between associated
companies of different Member States. The text as a whole was pushed through by a prointegration majority made up of the EPP, S&D, ALDE, and Greens/EFA groups. However, the
MEPs voted to delete a key provision that asked the Commission to come up with a proposal
for a EU-wide minimum rate of corporate taxes so as to decrease tax competition between
Member States (am. 2, part 2).
The amendment had been adopted in the ECON committee, but it was voted down in the
plenary by a majority made up of the EPP, ECR and EFD groups, who also benefited from
defections from the ALDE (Ireland, Netherlands, Denmark) and S&D (UK, Malta, Cyprus)
groups.
Financial Transactions Tax: MEPs back the tax, but differ on where the money should go
23 May 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/common-system-for-taxing-financial-transactions-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-legislative-resolu.html
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487 MEPs - a large majority - supported a tax on financial transactions to be levied by EU
Member States. A significant minority of 152 MEPs (ECR, EFD, and ALDE group -with the
exception of the French, Italian and Finnish Members - voted against the proposal. Twenty
EPP Members (from Malta, Cyprus, Sweden, and Latvia) and 6 Socialists (from Malta and
Cyprus) also voted against. See the breakdown of the vote here.
With regard to the revenue raised by the tax (addressed in amendment 38), EPP, S&D and
ALDE Members voted that part of it should go to the EU budget. The ECR, EFD and Green
groups, but also UK Labour MEPs (who defected from the S&D line) voted that the entire
amount should stay at the disposal of the Member States. Following the publication of the
roll call votes by the EP, the Greens/EFA group informed VoteWatch.eu that they had made
an error in supporting amendment 38, and that they would enter a statement to this effect
in the minutes, in line with the Rules of Procedure. Such statements do not alter the result of
the vote. See the breakdown of votes on amendment 38 here.
EP plays down Commission's plans for taxation of energy products
19 April 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/taxation-of-energy-products-and-electricity-draft-legislativeresolution-vote-legislative-resolution.html
A majority of MEPs from the three main groups, EPP, S&D and ALDE, voted in favour of a
report (consultation procedure) that provides for a softer approach on the taxation of energy
products than the version proposed by the European Commission. According to these groups,
the Commission's original plans would have led to a substantial (though gradual) increase in
the prices of diesel fuel. However, a minority of MEPs from both the EPP (Polish and Latvian
members) and S&D (Polish, Romanian, Bulgarian and Belgian members) groups as well as the
Greens/EFA, GUE/NGL and ECR, EFD groups voted against the report as amended.
The final decision rests with the Council of Ministers, as Parliament's position on this matter
is purely consultative.
Corporate tax base should be harmonised, EP says
19 April 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/common-consolidated-corporate-tax-base-draft-legislativeresolution-vote-legislative-resolution-cons.html
A majority of MEPs voted in favour of a report (consultation procedure) giving backing to a
Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base across the Union.The aim would be to harmonise
the way in which Member States calculate corporate tax (but not the level of the taxes as
such). The majority of EPP members, as well as the S&D, ALDE and Greens/EFA groups voted
in favour the proposal. Interestingly, within the EPP, the members from Ireland and from
some of the Eastern European states (Poland, Hungary, Bulgaria) opposed the proposal, while
most of the Romanians abstained.
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Parliament votes for short selling limitations
15 November 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/short-selling-and-certain-aspects-of-credit-default-swapsdraft-legislative-resolution-vote-legislat.html
EP voted into law a regulation to curb short selling and trading in credit default swaps (CDS),
in a move aimed at preventing speculation on a country's default. The regulation comes as
part of EU's actions to fight volatility of markets in the context of the financial crisis. The law
was adopted with an overwhelming majority, but the ALDE and ECR groups abstained. Click
here to see votes.
The Six-pack
28 September 2011
The legislative package establishing the framework for European economic governance, also
referred to as the 'six-pack', was finally voted upon in the European Parliament, following
several postponements. The legislative proposals were adopted largely due to solid support
from the EPP and ALDE groups, whose members voted in favour of all six texts. Despite the
opposition of the other groups, the EPP and ALDE groups succeeded in securing the majority
due to a high level of internal discipline, combined with defections from other groups. The
centre-left group, the S&D, supported only one of the six proposals, that on Prevention and
correction of macroeconomic imbalances. The Greens/EFA group supported three of the
proposals, but voted against the remaining three. While the positions of MEPs within the ECR
group were split, only one proposal found a majority in that group: Requirements for
budgetary frameworks of Member States. The radical left group, GUE/NGL, voted against all
six proposals, while the EFD was split. Detailed information regarding the breakdown of votes,
texts of the proposals and summaries can be found by clicking the links below:

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
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Surveillance of budgetary positions and surveillance and coordination of economic
policies (text, breakdown of votes).
Budgetary Surveillance in the euro area (text, breakdown of votes).
Enforcement measures to correct excessive macroeconomic imbalances in euro area
(text, breakdown of votes)
Prevention and correction of macroeconomic imbalances (text, breakdown of votes)
Implementation of excessive deficit procedure (text, breakdown of votes)
Requirements for budgetary frameworks of Member States (text, breakdown of votes)
Click here for a summary of the legislative package.
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Credit rating agencies
15 December 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/credit-rating-agencies-draft-legislative-resolution-votelegislative-resolution-ordinary-legislative.html
New rules regulating credit rating agencies were approved by Parliament. According to the
latest amendments of the European Parliament, the European Securities and Markets
Authority (ESMA) was empowered to make dawn raids, impose fines, and ensure credit rating
agencies evaluate the accuracy of their past ratings. ESMA will be able to impose fines of up
to 20% of a credit rating agency's turnover for the previous year. All credit rating agencies
must be checked by July 2014. The amendments were approved with 611 votes in favour, 15
against and 26 abstentions. Most European political groups voted in favour of this proposal,
agreeing that the credit rating agencies were monitored by ESMA, and not by the
Commission, as was originally appointed. Click to see the distribution of votes and text.
State aid to facilitate the closure of uncompetitive coal mines
23 November 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/state-aid-to-facilitate-the-closure-of-uncompetitive-coalmines-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-le.html
Parliament asked for an extension of the deadline until 2018. The liberals, the greens and the
British conservatives opposed it A majority of MEPs voted a resolution requesting that the
deadline for closing uncompetitive coal mines in the European Union should be extended
from 1 October 2014 (as specified in the Commission proposal for a Regulation) to 31
December 2018. The extension was supported by the EPP, S&D and GUE/NGL groups. The
ALDE and the Greens/EFA groups opposed, EFD abstained, while the ECR group was divided
on this issue: the British delegation voted against, while the rest of the group voted in favour
of the extension. Click to see the distribution of votes and text.
The Financial Supervision Package was adopted by the European Parliament
22 September 2010
The architecture of the European financial supervision, as approved by the Parliament, consist
of a European Systemic Risk Board and 3 independent authorities to supervise banks (based
in London), insurance and pensions (based in Frankfurt) and securities and markets (based in
Paris).
The system is conceived as a European response for preventing future financial crisis. The 6
separate reports were adopted by large majorities in the EP plenary, with only the antiEuropean group (EFD) opposing. However, the MEPs from the EPP, S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA
and GUE/NGL groups underlined that, although they welcome the compromise reached with
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the Council over the content of the new regulations, they see this as only the beginning of the
transition towards a real European economic and financial governance, as new regulations
will follow shortly.
Here is how the MEPs voted and the texts:
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Macro-prudential oversight of the financial system and establishment of a European
Systemic Risk Board (click to see distribution of votes and text)
Specific tasks for the European Central Bank concerning the functioning of the
European Systemic Risk Board (click to see distribution of votes and text)
European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (click to see distribution
of votes and text)
European Securities and Markets Authority (click to see distribution of votes and text)
European Banking Authority (click to see distribution of votes and text)
Powers of the European Banking Authority, the European Insurance and Occupational
Pensions Authority and the European Securities and Markets Authority (click to see
distribution of votes and text)
MEPs adopted stricter rules on bankers' bonuses
7 July 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/capital-requirements-for-the-trading-book-and-for-resecuritisations-and-the-supervisory-review-of-r.html
A legislative proposals providing that thresholds will be imposed on upfront cash bonuses and
at least half of any bonus will have to be paid in contingent capital and shares was voted in
the Parliament. The text also brings tougher capital rules on bank trading activities and higher
standards for re-securitizations. The proposal was supported by a large majority, with only
the radical left - GUE/NGL - and the British part of the EFD group opposing it (see distribution
of votes and text.
The powers of the European financial supervision authorities still to be negotiated with the
Council
7 July 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/european-banking-authority-draft-legislative-resolution-voteamended-proposal-ordinary-legislative-p.html
The Parliament adopted with amendments a series of proposals that provide the creation of
supervision bodies at the EU level that will be able to regulate directly over financial
institutions (European Banking Authority, European Insurance and Occupational Pensions
Authority and European Securities and Markets Authority). The first-reading amended
proposals were adopted by a large majority, with some opposition being expressed by the
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radical left - GUE/NGL - and the anti-European EFD group (see distribution of votes and
text). However, the Parliament postponed its final votes on the legislative resolutions as it
wished to leave time for further negotiations with the Council aiming at an agreement at first
reading.
Eurostat set to closely monitor the economic statistical data of the member states
6 July 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/quality-of-statistical-data-in-the-context-of-the-excessivedeficit-procedure-draft-legislative-reso.html
Parliament adopted a legislative resolution that provides new powers to Eurostat with the
aim of preventing misleading information being provided to the European Commission by the
member states, as was the case of Greece. The text provides, among others, that the Eurostat
will be able to make unannounced inspections in member states to verify the accuracy of the
data. The proposal was supported by a large majority, with some opposition coming from the
radical left (GUE/NGL group) and the British delegation within the anti-European EFD group,
while most of the ECR members from Poland and Czech Republic abstained (see distribution
of votes and text).
Estonia to adopt the euro on 1 January 2011
16 June 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/adoption-by-estonia-of-the-euro-on-1-january-2011-draftlegislative-resolution-single-vote-consultat.html
Parliament gave its assent to the Baltic country's joining the Eurozone next year. The decision
was supported by the EPP, S&D, ALDE and Greens/EFA groups. The anti-European EFD group
opposed, while the GUE/NGL group abstained. Within the ECR group, the Polish and Czech
delegations voted in favour, while most of the British Conservatives abstained (see
distribution of votes and text).
Administrative cooperation and combating fraud in the field of value added tax (recast)
5 May 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/administrative-cooperation-and-combating-fraud-in-thefield-of-value-added-tax-recast-draft-legislat.html
Eurofisc, a new EU agency designed to coordinate fight against cross-border VAT fraud, was
given green light by the EP: the decision was taken by a majority composed of
Greens/ALE+S&D+ALDE+EPP, while the right (ECR+EFD) and the radical left (GUE/NGL) voted
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against creating a new agency at EU level (see distribution of votes and text). Votes in the
policy area Economics have so far been decided by an EPP+ALDE coalition (details here).
EP takes important step in the direction of banking union
15 April 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/resolution-of-credit-institutions-and-certain-investmentfirms-in-the-framework-of-a-single-resoluti.html
The European Parliament (EP) approved a major legislative package which aims to better
equip banking sectors in the EU for potential failures, as well as to ensure adequate protection
for the taxpayers. The package, which complements the single supervisory mechanism
legislation (adopted by the EP in September 2013), consists of two reports dealing with
troubled banks, and one updating the deposit guarantee scheme.
The legislative package establishes a resolution authority, which would determine whether
an institution could fail. It also creates a resolution fund for failing banks. In the event of bank
failure in EU member states, new rules will be applied, which would ensure that banks would
not rely heavily on public interventions. Instead, a bail-in regime would apply first and banks
would rely firstly on equity holders. If such measures would not suffice, an intervention from
the resolution fund will be possible. To this aim, banks will be required to finance national
reserve funds.
A single resolution fund worth 55 billion Euro shall be financed by banks in the banking union
(Eurozone countries and possibly opt-ins), and established over an 8-year period. Countries
outside the banking union will set up their own fund, amounting to 1% of covered deposits
within 10 years.
All three reports were adopted with large majorities. The report on the creation of the single
resolution fund passed by 570 votes in favour, 88 against and 13 abstentions. The winning
majority was composed of the EPP, S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA and ECR groups. Most EFD and
GUE-NGL MEPs voted against. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
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6. Employment & social affairs
Aid to the EU's most deprived citizens
25 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/fund-for-european-aid-to-the-most-deprived-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-legislative-resolution-.html
The European Parliament approved an informal deal reached with the Council in December
2013. As a result a 3.5 billion Euro Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived (FEAD)
replaced the previous EU food aid programme, in the 2014-2020 framework. FEAD aims to
ensure non-financial assistance to the poorest European citizens, by providing food, as well
as other basic goods. The new EU instrument will apply to all 28 EU members, but Member
States will be in charge of managing the funds. The legislative text passed with the support of
most groups. Only the ECR group and almost half of the EFD members voted against.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States
6 February 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/guidelines-for-the-employment-policies-of-the-memberstates-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-legisl.html
A majority formed by EPP, S&D, ALDE and Greens/EFA voted in favour of guidelines for the
employment policies in the Member States. By this, the European Parliament supports the
Commission's proposal and stresses that these documents are integrated in the guidelines for
implementing the Europe 2020 strategy.
New guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States
17 February 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/guidelines-for-the-employment-policies-of-the-memberstate-draft-legislative-resolution-consultation.html
A legislative resolution under the consultation procedure setting the new guidelines to be
followed by the 27 member states in the employment policies was approved with a large
majority, as only the radical left (GUE/NGL) voted against it. See how each MEP voted and the
text of the law.
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Guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States
8 September 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/guidelines-for-the-employment-policies-of-the-memberstates-draft-legislative-resolution-recommendat-17.html
New guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States were suggested by the
European Parliament in a report under the consultation procedure. The document, whose
provisions recommend to Member State measures so as to increase the employment rate in
the EU up to 75% of the active population, was adopted in the plenary by a large majority
composed of EPP+ALDE+S&D+Greens/EFA. However, the radical-left (GUE/NGL) and the antiEuropeans (EFD) voted against the proposal, while the conservatives (ECR) abstained (click to
see the distribution of votes and text).
Lorry drivers
16 June 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/the-organisation-of-the-working-time-of-personsperforming-mobile-road-transport-activities-draft-le-2.html
The Parliament rejected the Commission proposal that self-employed drivers continue to be
exempted from the 2002 Working Time Directive on the road transport industry. The
legislative resolution against the Commission proposal was supported by the left groups
S&D+Greens/ALE+GUE/NGL who succeeded in securing the majority as the EPP group was
very split on this vote, with about 40% of its members voting with the left (mostly from France,
Italy, Spain and Portugal). The rest of EPP members, the ALDE, ECR and EFD groups supported
the Commission proposal (see here distribution of votes and text).
Motivation: the left-of-centre groups argued that the core of the matter was road safety and
social protection, while the centre-right groups considered that more regulation will mean
additional burden for the self-employed.
Consequence: following the rejection by Parliament, the Commission has declared that it
considers withdrawing the proposal.
Context: self-employed drivers were temporarily exempted from the rules of the existing EU
directive on drivers' working hours, but were due to come under those rules by 23 March
2009 unless the European Commission proposed legislation to the contrary. The Commission
did that, but the Parliament has now rejected the Commission's proposal.
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Community Programme for Employment and Social Solidarity – Progress
11 February 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/community-programme-for-employment-and-socialsolidarity-progress-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-.html
European Microfinance Facility for Employment and Social Inclusion (Progress) Proposal for
a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council
15 December 2009
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/report-kinga-goncz-european-microfinance-facility-foremployment-and-social-inclusion-progress-propo-12.html
The EP adopted the draft legislative resolution on 'European Microfinance Facility for
Employment and Social Inclusion (Progress)' in first reading, in spite of opposition coming
from the Greens, GUE/NGL and EFD groups who voted against the report.
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7. Environment & public health
EP votes to reduce the use of plastic bags
16 April 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/reducing-the-consumption-of-lightweight-plastic-carrierbags-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-commi.html
The EP adopted new rules to reduce the use and waste of plastic carrier bags. The legislation
proposed a set of reduction targets (50% by 2017 and 80% by 2019) and called upon member
states to reach towards these goals so that a gradual phasing out of lightweight plastic bags
in the EU is achievable. To this aim, the MEPs proposed the introduction of mandatory charge
for plastic bags in shops, as well as other market restrictions or bans.
The report passed with 539 votes in favour to 51 against, and 72 abstentions. All EP groups
voted in favour, with the exception of the ECR Group, whose MEPs mostly
abstained. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
MEPs adopt measures to improve patient safety
2 April 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/medical-devices-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-legislativeresolution-ordinary-legislative-proced.html
The European Parliament adopted a legislative report on medical devices, defined as
instruments, software or implants used for diagnosis, monitoring or treatment. The report
was sent back to the committee during last October's second plenary session.
The report welcomed the Commission's proposal to revise the existing regulatory framework,
which dates back to the early 1990s, and is not up to date on the technological and scientific
progress made in the last two decades. The report seeks to improve patient safety and to
ensure full traceability from producer to patient, and therefore called for more vigilant market
surveillance, and a more efficient and transparent market approval system for medical
devices.
The report passed by 547 in favour to 19 against and 63 abstentions (mainly from the ECR and
EFD groups). Click here to see how each MEP voted.
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The EP backs controversial deal with the Council on aviation ETS rules
3 April 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/greenhouse-gas-emission-trading-international-aviationemissions-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-l.html
The EP adopted a watered down deal with the Council on ETS (Emission Trading Scheme) rules
for aviation, according to which all non-EU airlines would be exempted from paying for their
CO2 emissions in EU air space. This position opposes the one adopted earlier by the
Environment committee, which rejected the deal. According to new rules, only domestic
flights will be covered by the EU legislation. ETS rules would, however, apply for all flights (to
or from the EU), from 2017 on.
The deal was approved by a large majority, passing with 458 votes in favour to 120 against,
with only the Greens/EFA and GUE-NGL groups voting against. Click here to see how each
MEP voted.
MEPs adopt environmental assessment directive
12 March 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/assessment-of-the-effects-of-certain-public-and-privateprojects-on-the-environment-draft-legislativ-18.html
The European Parliament gave its final vote on the revised Environmental Impact Assessment
(EIA) Directive. The report covers a variety of projects, for which environmental sustainability
criteria are set out. The updated text includes rules to make assessment methods clearer and
to prevent conflicts of interests. The resolution also aims to ensure increased involvement of
the public in the development of projects. The text resulted from the negotiations with the
Council does not include mandatory environmental impact assessment for shale gas
extraction and exploration projects.
The legislation was already informally agreed with the Council, which will vote in the coming
weeks. The report passed in the EP with 528 votes to 135. Most votes against came from the
Greens/EFA and GUE-NGL groups. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
EPs adopted revised tobacco directive
26 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/manufacture-presentation-and-sale-of-tobacco-and-relatedproducts-draft-legislative-resolution-vote--3.html
The European Parliament adopted the revised Tobacco Directive. The controversial dossier
was adopted in first reading by a large majority, with 514 votes in favour to 66 against. The
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compromise text, negotiated with the Council, is close to the position adopted by the EP in
Strasbourg in October 2013. The revised Directive aims to deter young people from smoking,
and will require a 65% picture warning to cover both the front and the back of tobacco packs.
It also introduced a ban on misleading flavours and packaging.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
The most contested aspect of the legislation regards e-cigarettes. A majority of the MEPs
voted for stricter marketing regulations of these products. According to the adopted text, ecigarettes would be sold as medicinal products (if marketed as quitting aid), or alternatively
as tobacco products. In the latter case, their nicotine concentration should not exceed 20
mg/ml. Electronic cigarettes should be childproof and should carry health warnings. The same
advertising restrictions would apply as in the case of tobacco products. The amendment
passed with 478 votes in favour to 130 against. Votes against came mostly from the ECR
Group, as well as German MEPs in the ALDE and EPP groups. Click here to see how each MEP
voted.
EP approved 2020 target to reduce CO2 emissions from new cars
25 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/2020-target-to-reduce-co2-emissions-from-new-passengercars-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-legisl.html
The European Parliament adopted a legislative report, which sets new rules aimed to reduce
the CO2 emissions of new vehicles sold on the EU market. From 2015, the current CO2
emissions target will be reduced from 160g/km to 130. The text calls for even more extensive
reductions from 2020 onwards, thus proposing a 95g/km target. The MEPs simultaneously
called for more reliable testing procedures for environmental impact to be introduced from
2017 as well as for increased incentives from car manufacturers to incorporate ecoinnovations in their technologies, which would help to reduce CO2 emissions. The report
passed with 499 votes in favour to 107 against and 9 abstentions. The votes against came
from the Greens/EFA, GUE-NGL and EFD groups. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
GM pollen will not be listed as an ingredient of honey
15 January 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/honey-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-commission-proposalordinary-legislative-procedure-first-rea.html
The European Parliament adopted the Commission's proposal regarding genetically modified
(GM) pollen in honey. The EP report voted upon states that pollen is a "constituent" of honey.
This is in line with GM regulations, which states that GM content has to be labelled only if it
exceeds the limit of 0.9% of the honey, as honey with pollen has less GM content. This
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definition contradicts the 2011 European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling, which considered GM
pollen as an "ingredient" of honey, not a constituent.
The ingredient/constituent debate in the EP was won by an alliance made of S&D, ALDE, EPP,
ECR and EFD, with 430 votes to 224 against. The left groups Greens and GUE-NGL sided with
the Environment committee, which deleted any reference to pollen as a constituent in its
amendments, and instead made the case for labelling GM pollen in honey as an ingredient.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
MEPs adopt report on limits for CO2 emissions for vans
14 January 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/co2-emissions-from-new-light-commercial-vehicles-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-legislative-resol.html
The CO2 emissions limit for new light commercial vehicles sold on the EU market was voted
on by the European Parliament, and will be reduced to 147g/km by 2020, as was proposed by
the European Commission. The EP report supports the Commission's proposal, confirming the
feasibility of the 2020 target, and the rapporteur opposes other long-term targets. The MEPs
also backed to maintain eco-innovations in the final text, and welcome the positive effects of
the new legislation on the environment.
The report passed with 552 votes in favour to 110 against. The negative votes came from
Greens/EFA and GUE-NGL groups, and more than half of the EFD Members. Click here to see
how each MEP voted.
Backloading finally voted into legislation
10 December 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/timing-of-auctions-of-greenhouse-gas-allowances-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-legislative-resolu.html
The European Parliament gave its final agreement to the Commission's proposal on the timing
of auctions of greenhouse gas emissions. The proposal, also known as backloading, was
previously rejected in the April 2013 plenary by the centre-right groups and sent back to the
Environment committee. In July 2013, MEPs have adopted a softened version of the
Commission's proposal, which was later endorsed by the Council of Ministers. The new
version is more restrictive when it comes to allowing the Commission to delay the auctioning
of CO2 certificates, mentioning specifically that such action can be undertaken only in
exceptional circumstances, and only once for a maximum of 900 million allowances.
The legislative resolution was pushed through the plenary with 385 votes, 41 more votes than
it managed to gain in July. To extra votes came from the GUE-NGL group and several ALDE
(Finland, Estonia) and EPP (Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Estonia) MEPs, which abstained or voted
against in July. The opposition was now formed by the majority of the EPP Members and the
ECR and EFD groups. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
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Centre-left pushes through environmental impact assessments on shale gas projects
9 October 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/assessment-of-the-effects-of-certain-public-and-privateprojects-on-the-environment-draft-legislativ-15.html
The EP adopted a report that amends the existing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Directive. The report covers a variety of projects, for which environmental sustainability
criteria are set out. A controversial amendment proposed that shale gas and other nonconventional hydrocarbons projects would be subject to compulsory environmental impact
assessment. A part of MEPs argued that these environmental concerns need to be addressed
in the form of EIA, while others believed that this would add too much red tape to this
industry. The amendment was pushed through by a centre-left coalition made up by the S&D,
ALDE, Greens/EFA and GUE-NGL groups, with EPP, ECR and EFD voting against. However,
some national party delegations from these three groups defected. For example, the S&D
Polish delegation voted against the EIA, while most of the Belgian, Irish, Dutch and Romanian
EPP Members voted in favour (against their own group).
Click here to see how each MEP voted on this amendment.
MEPs adopt a watered-down Tobacco Directive
8 October 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/manufacture-presentation-and-sale-of-tobacco-and-relatedproducts-draft-legislative-resolution-artic-20.html
The revised Tobacco Directive, proposed by the Commission and amended by the European
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Parliament, aims to discourage the youth from smoking, by imposing stricter rules on health
warnings, packaging, labels and ingredients. Following the voting session, the MEPs granted
a mandate to Rapporteur Linda McAvan (S&D, UK) to continue the negotiations with the
Council of Ministers in view of an agreement at first reading. The mandate was approved by
620 in favour to 43 against, with 14 abstentions.
However, some of the key provisions of the text were highly disputed. Firstly, the size of the
warning label on the cigarettes package was finally set at 65%, a compromise position, after
the Commission had proposed 75% and the EPP group drafted an amendment that said 50%.
The balance was tilted by the ALDE group, who voted against 75%, but in favour of 65%, thus
making the difference between the political forces at the left and those at the right of it. Here
is how each of the political groups voted on the amendment that put the warning label size
at 65%:
Text proposed by the Commission
Amendment (by ALDE)
(c) cover 75% of the external area of both (c) cover 65% of the external area of both
the front and back surface of the unit packet the front and back surface of the unit packet
and any outside packaging;
and any outside packaging;
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
This is how the political groups voted on the amendment that asked for this area to be of only
50%:
Text proposed by the Commission
Amendment (by EPP)
(c) cover 75% of the external area of both the (c) cover 50% of the external area of both the
front and back surface of the unit packet and front and back surface of the unit packet and
any outside packaging;
any outside packaging;
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While MEPs agreed on banning certain flavours in tobacco, the ban on menthol will be subject
to a 5 years derogation (as set in amendment 95), a decision supported by EPP, ECR and EFD.
ALDE Members' votes were split, a majority voting against.
The use of menthol in all its commercial forms known on the date of publication of this
directive shall be exempted from the application of Article 6 for a period of 5 years from the
date referred to in Article 25(1).
Justification: The transitional period for the positive list is already 3 years. By adding 5 years,
tobacco industry can use menthol for 8 more years after the entry into force of this directive.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
Centre-left pushes through cap on biofuels production
11 September 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/fuel-quality-directive-and-renewable-energy-directive-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-amended-prop.html
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The EP voted to cap the amount of crop-based biofuels that can be used to reach EU energy
targets. The final version of the legislative report (ordinary legislative procedure, first reading)
states that biofuels based on food crops should account for no more than 6 percent of the 10
percent target for renewable energy in transport fuels by 2020. The European Commission
had originally proposed 5 percent, which was subsequently raised to 5.5 percent at the
committee stage. The plenary vote raised the target to 6 percent. The legislation also
stipulates that advanced biofuels sourced from seaweed or certain types of waste should
represent at least 2.5% of energy consumption in transport by 2020.
The text as amended was endorsed by the S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA, GUE-NGL Groups, while
the EPP and ECR Groups opposed it. Click here to see how all MEPs voted.
However, a majority of MEPs rejected a proposal by the rapporteur, Corinne Lepage, to
postpone the vote on the legislative resolution so that the EP and Council could engage in
negotiations for an agreement at first reading. Consequently, the legislative resolution was
voted through, and the plan will now be debated and voted on in the Council. If Member
States do not agree to all of the EP's amendments, then the report will come back for a second
reading by MEPs, when a qualified (absolute) majority of MEPs will be needed to pass any
amendments.
Background: In 2009, the Commission set a target for a 10% share of renewable energy in
transport, with almost all of it to come from so-called first generation crop-based fuels.
However, some claimed that this evolution actually generated more pollution through
deforestation and indirect land use change (ILUC) and that it is partly responsible for the
increase in food prices, reason for which the matter returned to the legislators' table.
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'Backloading' proposal revived in EP
3 July 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/timing-of-auctions-of-greenhouse-gas-allowances-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-amended-proposal-o.html
In the Strasbourg plenary session MEPs adopted a softened version of the Commission's
proposal on the timing of auctions of greenhouse gas emissions (commonly known as
'backloading'). The document had been rejected by the plenary and sent back to the
Environment committee in April. The new version, however, is more restrictive when it comes
to allowing the Commission to delay the auctioning of CO2 certificates, mentioning
specifically that such action can be undertaken only in exceptional circumstances, and only
once for a maximum of 900 million allowances.
The amended version was pushed through the plenary with 344 votes in favour (mainly from
S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA and a minority of EPP Members) to 311 against (most of EPP, as well
as ECR and EFD Members), with 46 abstentions. This was made possible as the revised version
garnered more support after a number of MEPs changed their April position, mainly the
Spanish, Romanian and Austrian S&D MEPs, Bulgarian ALDE MEPs, and Austrian EPP MEPs.
Against a backdrop of general economic slowdown in Europe, this document should be seen
in the context of the oversupply of carbon emission allowances. It aims to boost the Emissions
Trading System by preventing the auctioning of some certificates and their release onto the
market. However, the vote on the legislative resolution has been postponed to allow for
negotiations with the Council in view of a possible first-reading agreement.
To see how each MEP voted on paragraph 73, click here.
Intercontinental flights excluded from the ETS
16 April 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/scheme-for-greenhouse-gas-emission-allowance-tradingwithin-the-community-draft-legislative-resoluti.html
In a vote on a report, a majority of MEPs voted to approve an agreement with the Council to
temporarily suspend the ETS for intercontinental flights so as to facilitate progress towards a
global agreement within the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). A broad majority
of MEPs supported this approach, while the Greens/EFA and GUE/NGL groups opposed it.
Click here to see the breakdown of votes by MEP.
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Centre-right votes down an increase in carbon price
16 April 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/clarifying-provisions-on-the-timing-of-auctions-ofgreenhouse-gas-allowances-draft-legislative-resol-2.html
The centre-right political groups in the European Parliament narrowly defeated (334 to 315)
the proposal by the European Commission to boost the price of EU "polluter's permits" within
the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
The EPP, the main opponent of this proposal (also known as 'backloading') argued that the
increase in prices is counter-productive at a time of economic downturn, as it will make life
harder for the industry and will result in higher energy prices for consumers. The centre-left
supported the reform, saying that more efforts are needed to fight pollution and climate
change and that renewable sources of energy should receive greater benefits at the expense
of the conventional sources that pollute more. Click here to read more information on ETS.
Breakdown of votes by European political group on the proposal to send the Commission's
proposal back to committee:
Click here to see the breakdown by individual MEP.
However, a proposal to conclude the legislative procedure (and thus to completely reject the
Commission's proposal) did not gather a majority of votes, as some MEPs switched sides on
this second vote. Click here to see the breakdown of votes by MEP.
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The 'swing voters' who made the difference between the two votes were mainly in the
Romanian, Bulgarian, Hungarian and Italian S&D national party delegations, as well as in the
Bulgarian ALDE delegation.
Sound level of motor vehicles disputed
6 February 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/sound-level-of-motor-vehicles-draft-legislative-resolutionvote-legislative-resolution-ordinary-legi.html
A majority formed by EPP, ALDE, ECR and EFD adopted a legislative resolution on the sound
level of motor vehicles, while the S&D, Greens/EFA, GUE-NGL groups opposed. However, the
limit values proposed by the Commission were rejected by EPP, ECR and EFD. Underlining that
traffic noise harms health in numerous ways, the resolution calls on further research on these
effects. The MEPs also call on the Commission to publish "silent" road guidelines, addressed
to road authorities in order to provide them with a useful tool to comply with requirements
for more sustainable road infrastructure. Another tool proposed to improve the current
conditions is making available the information relating to noise, including test data, by
displaying it at points of sale and in promotional materials for vehicles.
Climate change: unconditional 30 % reduction remains Parliament's target for 2020
5 July 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/greenhouse-gas-emission-reductions-and-risk-of-carbonleakage-motion-for-a-resolution-vote-legislati.html
A majority of MEPs rejected a resolution that aimed to introduce conditionality in the 30%
reduction target for greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 (based on 1990 levels). The Parliament
had, in another non-legislative resolution adopted in November 2010, asked the Commission
to move up the target to 30%, with no conditions attached. The new draft resolution had
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stated that the target should be moved up, but "if and when the conditions are right".
However, this text was rejected in the plenary. The majority rejecting 'conditionality' was
formed by the S&D+Greens/EFA+GUE/NGL groups. The Polish EPP delegation also voted
against the conditionality. The ALDE group was split on the issue, with the majority of its
members abstaining from the vote, while the German delegation supported the principle of
conditionality. Click to see the text and a breakdown of votes.
Possibility for Member States to restrict or prohibit the cultivation of GMOs in their territory
5 July 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/possibility-for-member-states-to-restrict-or-prohibit-thecultivation-of-gmos-in-their-territory-dra-3.html
The Parliament voted a legislative resolution stating that each state should decide for itself
whether or not to restrict the cultivation of GMOs on its territory. Though the final vote saw
all political groups voting in favour of the proposal, the battle took place on several key
provisions related to the legal grounds that Member States can use for prohibition. Click here
to see the text of the legislative proposal.
The original proposal of the European Commission stated that member states can use all but
health and environmental grounds in a decision to prohibit cultivation of GMOs. However,
the political groups left-of-the-centre in the House insisted that member states be allowed to
invoke a potentially negative environmental impact and that the list of legal grounds should
explicitly include the socio-economic impact and urban planning. The centre-left
(ALDE+S&D+Greens/EFA+GUE/NGL) secured a clear majority to pass their amendments due
to a number of defections from the EPP group, primarily from among the Austrian, German,
Greek and Hungarian ranks. Click here to see the text of the key amendment 41 and here to
see a breakdown of votes by political groups, national delegations and individual MEPs.
New CO2 limits for vans adopted
15 February 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/emission-performance-standards-for-new-light-commercialvehicles-draft-legislative-resolution-ordina-5.html
A legislative resolution setting the new limits for CO2 emissions for car manufacturers was
passed with the support of the EPP, S&D, ALDE and ECR groups. However, the Greens/EFA,
the GUE/NGL and the EFD groups have opposed it. Click to see how each MEP voted and the
text of the law.
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Food information for consumers
16 June 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/food-information-to-consumers-draft-legislative-resolutionvote-legislative-resolution-ordinary-legi.html
The new rules of labelling food products voted by the MEPs provide that quantities of fat,
saturates, sugar and salt - as well as energy - must be indicated on the front of food packs.
The legislative resolution was voted by a comfortable majority, while the GUE/NGL group
opposed it (see distribution of votes and text).
Biocidal products
22 September 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/placing-on-the-market-and-use-of-biocidal-products-draftlegislative-resolution-amendments-by-thecom-3.html
New rules governing pest control products designed to eliminate bacteria in the water supply
were adopted at first reading in the Parliament. According to these, Parliament will give its
verdict on which biocidal products should be subject to authorisation under a new,
centralised EU procedure designed to increase efficiency and consistency in such decisions.
MEPs will also reach a position on the fees companies should pay and the deadlines they can
expect for a scientific evaluation of their products.
The proposal was adopted with the support of a EPP+S&D+ALDE+ECR+EFD majority, while the
left of S&D groups, i.e. the Greens/EFA and GUE/NGL, have abstained (see distribution
of votes and text).
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8. Fisheries
New Fisheries Fund approved by MEPs
16 April 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/european-maritime-and-fisheries-fund-draft-legislativeresolution-vote-legislative-resolution-ordina.html
A new European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) was adopted yesterday in the European
Parliament. The new rules contribute to the implementation of EU's new Common Fisheries
Policy (CFP) and will ensure that fishermen take the necessary steps towards sustainable
fishing. Some key provisions of the adopted legislation refer to countering over-fishing,
supporting young fishermen and job creation. While engine renewal would be allowed under
certain
conditions,
fleet
renewal
subsidies
have
been
forbidden.
The Council is expected to soon approve the agreement, which could become operational in
the coming weeks.
The report passed with 473 votes in favour to 52 against, and 40 abstentions. The Greens/EFA
group voted against, while most GUE-NGL MEPs abstained. Click here to see how each MEP
voted.
EPP and S&D push through fishing agreement with Morocco
10 December 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/eu-morocco-fisheries-partnership-agreement-protocolsetting-out-fishing-opportunities-and-financial-.html
Euro-deputies in Strasbourg gave their consent to a controversial fishing agreement with
Morocco, the previous one being rejected in December 2011. The new agreement will grant
access to vessels from 11 EU countries to fish in Moroccan waters, in return for a 30 million
Euro yearly payment.
The new agreement was approved by a small majority (310 votes in favour to 204). Those
voting against indicated discontentment with the inclusion of the Western Sahara coast in the
agreement, as the Moroccan occupation of the area is not recognized internationally.
The winning majority was formed by the EPP and S&D groups, while ALDE, Greens/EFA and
GUE-NGL voted against and most ECR members abstained. However, the votes of the main
groups were fragmented, in S&D and ALDE approximately a third of the Members defecting.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
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MEPs vote down proposals for fishing fleet renewal
23 October 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/european-maritime-and-fisheries-fund-draft-legislativeresolution-after-article-32-amendment-587-ord.html
On Wednesday, the European Parliament (EP) adopted its position at first reading on the
report on European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF). Members of the Parliament (MEPs)
agreed on the budget (€6.5 billion) to be allocated to the fishing industry between 2014 and
2020.
Most votes concerned the way the funds should be utilised. While the main political groups
agreed on subventions for young fishermen and temporary cessations of fishing activity under
certain conditions, there were other issues on which the groups had opposing views.
For example, when it came to the issue of fleet renewal, the EPP proposed investments in
new fishing vessels, seen as necessary for increasing security standards and modernising the
EU's fleet. However, the other groups voted down the proposals in this direction, arguing that
spending on fleets could result in more overfishing.
A key amendment in this regard, proposed by the EPP group, sets the conditions under which
the construction, decommissioning or importation of fishing vessels should be possible. The
proposal was voted down by the S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA and ECR group, which aligned their
position with that of the Commission, rejecting the possibility of fleet renewal (249 for to 410
voted against).
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
Overhaul of the common fisheries policy
6 February 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/common-fisheries-policy-draft-legislative-resolution-votelegislative-resolution-ordinary-legislativ.html
All the political families agreed on the final vote for a common fisheries policy, but an
important number of EPP members from Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, Belgium, Germany,
Bulgaria and Romania voted against this law.
The amendment proposed by EPP concerning the Advisory Councils that may be created for
implementing such policy and the role national and regional administrations of Member
States with interests in the fishing area should play was rejected by a centre-left coalition
(S&D, ALDE, Greens/EFA) who was joined by the ECR.
The text as a whole is less ambitious than the Commission proposal and aims only to reduce,
not to eliminate discards. Another measure regards transferable fishing concessions (TFCs),
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suggesting more individual responsibility in managing the quotas. The MEPs propose in
addition a legally binding obligation, placed on the Council, to reduce fishing mortality by 2015
and call on the Member States to cooperate on the adoption of "regionalised" national
measures.
Conservation and sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources
25 October 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/conservation-and-sustainable-exploitation-of-fisheriesresources-draft-legislative-resolution-single.html
MEPs passed legislation that supports the conservation and sustainable exploitation of
fisheries resources. The main subject of this resolution regards the equal access rule within
coastal waters, where the EP asks for the extension of the 12 mile zones both in time and
distance. By the adoption of this text the EP accepts the current proposal for a two year
extension of the regime. Interestingly, not a single MEP voted against this resolution.
EP consents to new EU-Morocco trade deal; Spanish MEPs oppose
16 February 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/agreement-between-the-eu-and-morocco-concerningreciprocal-liberalisation-measures-on-agricultural-p-7.html
The EP voted in favour of a more extensive EU-Morocco trade deal in agriculture and fisheries
products. The ALDE, ECR groups, as well as the majority of members from the EPP and S&D
groups supported the agreement, while the Greens/EFA, GUE/NGL groups opposed it. The
Spanish MEPs from both the EPP and S&D groups voted against, as well as the Italian and
Portuguese MEPs from the EPP group (but not the S&D). Interestingly, the rapporteur, José
Bové (Greens/EFA, FR), withdrew his name from the report following the vote.
The agreement will immediately lift 55% of tariffs on Morocco agricultural and fisheries
products (rising from 33%) and 70% of tariffs on EU agricultural and fisheries products within
ten years (rising from one per cent).
Note: in December 2011, the Parliament rejected the extension of the EU-Morocco fisheries
agreement, as proposed by the European Commission.
EU-Morocco fisheries agreement vetoed by the Parliament
14 December 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/eu-morocco-fisheries-partnership-agreement-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-legislative-resolution-.html
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The European Parliament rejected an extension of the controversial fisheries agreement
negotiated by the Commission with the Kingdom of Morocco. The EP called on the
Commission to negotiate a new, more environmentally and economically beneficial deal,
which should also take account the interests of the Sahrawi population. As a result, the
current protocol, which has applied provisionally since February 2011, will cease to apply
immediately.
A majority of MEPs voted against the report, following the recommendation of the
rapporteur, Carl Haglund (ALDE, FI), even though the specialised parliamentary committee
(PECH) had given a positive opinion. The narrow majority (296 in favour to 326 against) was
made up of the smaller political groups: GUE/NGL+Greens/EFA+ALDE+ECR+EFD and a
minority of MEPs from the EPP and S&D groups, thus leaving a majority of MEPs from the two
largest political groups (EPP and S&D) on the losing side.
The votes of the MEPs in the two largest groups were influenced by nationality. In the EPP
group, the Swedish and half of the German MEPs voted against, while the Hungarians and
Austrians abstained. In the S&D group, the votes against came from the British, German,
Dutch and Swedish delegations, as well as from some MEPs from France, Italy and Poland.
Click here for text, votes and more information.
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9. Foreign & security policy
European External Action Service
8 July 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/european-external-action-service-draft-legislative-resolutionvote-legislative-resolution-consultati.html
The EU legislative approved a package of recommendations on the organisation and
accountability of the EU diplomatic body. The decision was supported by the main political
groups, with only the radical left - GUE/NGL - and the anti-European EFD group opposing it
(see distribution of votes and text).
Amendment of Council Regulation (EC) No 1085/2006 of 17 July 2006 establishing an
Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA)
11 February 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/amendment-of-council-regulation-ec-no-1085-2006-of-17july-2006-establishing-an-instrument-for-pre-a.html
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10. Gender equality
40% of women on board of publicly-listed companies by 2020
20 November 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/gender-balance-among-non-executive-directors-ofcompanies-listed-on-stock-exchanges-draft-legislativ-32.html
The European Parliament adopted an amended Commission proposal for a directive on
improving gender balance among the non-executive directors of the big companies in the
EU. The legislative resolution debated and voted in Strasbourg proposes the introduction of
a gender quota for non-executive positions in boards of companies listed on the stockexchange, stipulating that at least 40% of the management posts must be filled by women by
2020 (2018 in the case of public companies). However, the report excluded small and medium
sized companies of less than 250 employees from the scope of the directive.
The report was supported by a parliamentary majority formed by the main groups of the EP,
with only right groups ECR and EFD opposing it, as well as the Swedish and Danish MEPs from
EPP, ALDE and GUE- NGL. The Directive was adopted with 459 voted in favour to 148 against
and 81 abstentions and will now be waiting for the endorsement of the Member States in the
Council. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
Improvements in the safety and health at work of pregnant workers and workers who have
recently given birth or are breastfeeding
20 October 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/improvements-in-the-safety-and-health-at-work-of-pregnantworkers-and-workers-who-have-recently-give-26.html
The new "Directive on Maternity Leave" was adopted by the European Parliament with a
narrow majority. The text provides for the extension of the maternity leave from 14 to 20 fully
paid weeks and a number of other measures favourable to mothers and pregnant women, as
well as for strengthening the role of the paternity leave.
The left has backed the proposal, arguing that its provisions will provide for more protection
of women and encourage demographic growth. The right, on the other hand, has opposed it,
stating that such provisions would lead to significant additional burden particularly for the
small business and to indirect discrimination of women on the labour market, as employers
will avoid hiring young women likely to benefit from an extended paid maternity leave.
One key vote was on amendment 12=38, providing for the extension of the maternity leave
from 14 to 20 weeks, who passed with 327 votes for to 320 against. The left wing forces - the
Socialists (S&D)+Greens/EFA + the radical left (GUE/NGL) - succeeded in gathering a majority
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with the help of 82 votes from EPP members, primarily from Poland, Italy, Hungary and
Lithuania.
Click to see the distribution of votes on the key amendment no. 12
Eventually, a majority made up by most of the S&D and EPP groups, together with the radicalleft (GUE/NGL) succeeded in passing the resolution as amended. However, there were
important splits inside both the S&D and the EPP, based on nationality, while the ALDE group
was split perfectly in half, with 33 MEPs voting for, 33 against and 9 abstaining.
Click to see the distribution of votes on the final vote (the amended resolution as a whole).
For the full text click here.
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11. Industry, research & energy
MEPs vote in favour of new telecom rules
3 April 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/european-single-market-for-electronic-communicationsdraft-legislative-resolution-vote-legislative-r.html
The European Parliament adopted its first reading on a legislative package, proposed by the
European Commission, on the development of a telecommunications single market. The
legislative proposal aims to increase the incentives for investment in new technologies and to
remove the barriers to a telecoms single market.
According to a key provision approved by MEPs, retail roaming charges within the EU would
be eliminated from December 2015. However, MEPs called on the EC to list exceptional cases
in which applying charges would be possible. MEPs also backed new, stricter rules against
Internet providers that block or slow down other companies or service suppliers. The text
highlighted that internet providers should respect the principle of net neutrality, stressing
that "all internet traffic is treated equally, without discrimination, restriction or interference,
independently of its sender, recipient, type, content, device, service or application".
Most political groups reached a compromise on the main points of the legislation at
committee level. As a result, the report passed by an overwhelming majority (534 votes for
to 25 against and 58 abstentions).
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
Political groups agree on supporting SMEs
21 November 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/competitiveness-of-enterprises-and-small-and-mediumsized-enterprises-2014-2020-draft-legislative-re.html
An overwhelming majority of MEPs endorsed a legislative resolution that sets out the rules of
the COSME programme, which will be EU's instrument to support the growth of SMEs in the
2014-2020 period. Worth 2.03 billion euros, the tool will support entrepreneurs, among
others, in the form of loan-guarantees and risk-capital. Among the political groups, only GUENGL voted against this report. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
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MEPs approve major investments in trans-European infrastructure (Connecting Europe
Facility)
19 November 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/connecting-europe-facility-draft-legislative-resolution-votelegislative-resolution-ordinary-legisla.html
The European Parliament adopted a key legislative document that sets out EU's priorities in
funding major cross-border energy, transportation and telecommunication projects in its next
multiannual budget framework. Connecting Europe Facility will be worth a total of 29.3 billion
euros that will be used for the development of a more coherent and better coordinated EU
infrastructure policy, to include under its umbrella specific projects aiming at the completion
of the single market. The actual amount invested in these projects will be much higher, as
innovative financial instruments, like project bonds, will be used to multiply the funds made
available.
The report was supported by a comfortable majority (EPP, S&D, ALDE, ECR), while opposed
by the Greens/EFA and GUE-NGL groups. Click here to see how each MEP voted.
New rules for offshore oil and gas drilling
21 May 2013
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/offshore-oil-and-gas-prospection-exploration-andproduction-activities-draft-legislative-resolution-.html
A grand coalition of EPP+S&D+ALDE+ECR gave its backing to a first-reading
legislative report setting stricter safety standards for offshore oil and gas operations. The new
rules will also set minimum European standards for regulating licensing, emergency plans and
the decommissioning of platforms.
But a series of amendments that would have imposed even tougher restrictions were
rejected. For instance, Amendment 3, which stated that "Member States should refrain from
offshore drilling in close proximity to particularly touristic areas, or in areas which are
geologically unstable, or where effects on coastal communities and the marine environment
would be devastating", was rejected. The amendment was supported by the Greens/EFA,
GUE/NGL Groups and a minority of S&D Members (mainly from Italy and Spain), but was
opposed by the EPP, ALDE, ECR and the rest of S&D MEPs. Click here to see how each MEP
voted on this amendment.
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EU member states to disclose information on energy deals
13 September 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/intergovernmental-agreements-between-member-statesand-third-countries-in-the-field-of-energy-draft-.html
MEPs passed legislation that grants more powers to the Commission in supervising the
negotiations and the singing of energy deals between member states and third countries.
The regulation was pushed through by a centre-right majority (EPP, ALDE, ECR), while the
centre-left voted against it, after a number of amendments tabled by the S&D, which aimed
at making Commission's supervision tougher, were rejected. Click here for a detailed
description of the provisions.
Call to phase out nuclear energy defeated
17 November 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/framework-programme-of-the-european-atomic-energycommunity-for-nuclear-research-and-training-activi-7.html
A majority of MEPs adopted the Framework programme of the European Atomic Energy
Community for nuclear research and training activities, with only the Greens / EFA and the
GUE / NGL groups voting against at the final vote. A key vote was cast on amendment 36,
drafted by the Greens / EFA group aimed at underlining the view that EU should renounce
nuclear energy at the soonest. The amendment was supported by the GUE / NGL and Greens
/ EFA, as well as by two thirds of the S&D members and almost half of the ALDE MEPs.
However, it failed to reach the majority of votes, as the EPP, ECR, EFD groups, as well as most
of the ALDE MEPs voted against it.
Community financial assistance with respect to the decommissioning of Units 1 to 4 of the
Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant in Bulgaria "Kozloduy Programme”
20 May 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/community-financial-assistance-with-respect-to-thedecommissioning-of-units-1-to-4-of-the-kozloduy-n-5.html
A draft legislative resolution allowing the EU to prolong its financial assistance until the end
of 2013 was passed by a comfortable majority, with only the Greens/ALE and the GUE/NGL
groups opposing it (see distribution of votes and text).
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European Commission to gather energy infrastructure information from member states
25 February 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/investment-projects-in-energy-infrastructure-within-theeuropean-community-draft-legislative-resolut-3.html
The EP passed under the consultation procedure a resolution that supports the European
Commission to identify potential demand and supply gaps within the EU and adjust its energy
policy accordingly. The proposal as a whole received large support from the MEPs, but some
of the amendments saw a division among the left and right forces in the European Parliament.
See votes here.
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12. Internal market & consumer protection
MEPs agreed upon new rules for public procurement and concessions contracts
15 January 2014
The European Parliament gave its final vote on the new legislation on public procurement,
and concessions contracts, making them available to public authorities for procuring works,
goods or services. The new rules will ensure fairer competition and a more efficient use of
public money.
These new standards were adopted following negotiations with the Council and the
Commission, which were concluded in June 2013. The agreed compromise excludes the water
from the Directive. The MEPs considered that this particular sector should be legislated
separately. The three final texts received strong support, passing with comfortable
majorities.
Click here to see how each MEP voted on the public procurement report.
Click here to see how each MEP voted on the award of concession contracts report.
Click here to see how each MEP voted on the procurement by entities operating in the water,
energy, transport and postal services sector report.
Combating late payment in commercial transactions
20 October 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/combating-late-payment-in-commercial-transactions-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-legislative-reso.html
The deadline for paying a bill was set by Parliament to 30 days, in a move that met the support
of all political groups in the House. The legislative report provides that both business-tobusiness and public-to-business payments should be made within a 30-day interval, unless
otherwise provided for in the contract, with a maximum limit of 60 days allowed for
exceptional situations. If endorsed by the Council, the Member States will have two years to
transpose this Directive into national legislation. Click here to see distribution of votes and
text.
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Textile names and related labelling of textile products
18 May 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/textile-names-and-related-labelling-of-textile-products-draftlegislative-resolution-vote-legislativ.html
"Made in" labels could become compulsory for clothes imported from third countries,
according to a legislative resolution voted by the MEPs. The resolution was passed against the
background of opposition from the by a comfortable majority, with only the ECR and
Greens/ALE groups abstaining (see distribution of votes and text).
Electronic communication networks and services, 3rd reading on the joint text approved by
the Conciliation Committee
24 November 2009
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/report-catherine-trautmann-electronic-communicationnetworks-and-services-3rd-reading-on-the-joint-t.html
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13. International trade
EU to lift tariffs on imports from Ukraine
3 April 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/reduction-or-elimination-of-customs-duties-on-goodsoriginating-in-ukraine-draft-legislative-resolut-2.html
The EU will lift customs duties on most imports from Ukraine, according to a legislative
resolution passed by the European Parliament. By adopting these measures, the EU aims to
ease Ukraine's economic and financial struggle. The measures are unilateral, as Ukraine will
not have to lift tariffs in return. However, the Ukrainian authorities will have to make sure
that tariffs on EU goods will not rise, and products from non-EU countries will not enter
through Ukraine.
The report also contains a safeguard clause, according to which the EU will have the right to
re-impose tariffs in any case where imports from Ukraine cause serious difficulties to EU
producers. An amendment tabled by the far-left, called on the Commission to immediately
suspend these preferential arrangements if Ukraine in any case adopts measures that restrict
human - or workers' rights. However, it was voted down by the EPP, ALDE and ECR groups, by
334 to 211 votes.
The resolution passed with a large majority, and was supported by all the groups, with the
exception of GUE-NGL. The deal is expected to become effective in May 2014 and will apply
until November 2014, or until the full Association Agreement with Ukraine will enter into
force.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
MEPs adopt controversial legislation on access to public procurements markets
15 January 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/access-of-goods-and-services-to-public-procurementmarkets-draft-legislative-resolution-vote-commiss.html
The European Parliament gave its support for the Commission's proposal to introduce
regulations on the access of goods and services from thirds countries, to the EU public
procurements market. By adopting this report, the EP approved to limit the access to the EU
market for those third countries that have the capacity to provide similar access to EU
businesses.
The MEPs' opinions on this topic were divided. On the winning side were those who
considered that the new legislation would boost EU's position in international trade (mostly
S&D, ALDE and EPP MEPs). On the other side were those who considered that such measures
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resembles protectionism and feared that the new rule has possible red-tape effects. Finally,
the Commission's proposal was supported by 479 MEPs (to 184 voted against). Click here to
see how each MEP voted.
EU-Colombia/Peru trade agreement approved
11 December 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/eu-colombia-peru-trade-agreement-draft-legislativeresolution-vote-approbacion-consent.html
The European Parliament gave its consent to the trade agreement with Peru and Colombia.
The text was adopted by a majority formed by the EPP, S&D, ALDE and ECR groups, while the
EFD, the Greens/EFA and GUE/NGL groups voted against. However, a significant minority of
S&D Members from the UK, the Netherlands, Ireland and Sweden also opposed the deal.
The trade deal is part of a bigger EU cooperation effort with the Andean Community. The EU
sectors that are expected to benefit most will be machinery, transport equipment (in
particular automobiles), chemicals and services (telecommunications, construction,
distribution and financial services). Peru and Colombia will receive effective access to the EU
market, and fruit (especially bananas and grapes) and shrimps will benefit from lower tariffs,
which may lead to an increase in the GDP of Colombia and Peru by 1.3% and 0.7% respectively
in the long term. Clauses on respect for democratic principles and fundamental human rights,
sustainable development, and labour rights are also included in the agreement.
Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing an association between the EC
and Israel on Conformity Assessment and Acceptance of Industrial Products (CAA)
23 October 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/protocol-to-the-euro-mediterranean-agreement-establishingan-association-between-the-ec-and-israel-o-2.html
MEPs gave their consent to the Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Agreement establishing
an association between the EC and Israel on Conformity Assessment and Acceptance of
Industrial Products. The legislation stipulates that EU-certified pharmaceuticals will be
exported to Israel and vice-versa without requiring additional certification in the importing
country. The resolution was pushed through by a centre-right coalition made up by the EPP,
ALDE, ECR, and EFD groups, that benefited from 34 defections in the S&D coming from Central
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and Eastern European states (mainly from Poland, Romania, Czech Republic, Slovakia and
Hungary). However, Irish, British and Italian ALDE members voted against it.
Trade preferences granted to Pakistan
13 September 2012
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/emergency-autonomous-trade-preferences-for-pakistandraft-legislative-resolution-vote-legislative-re.html
A majority of EPP, ALDE and Greens/EFA groups have pushed through a regulation that will
allow Pakistan to export more duty free goods to the EU so as to help the economic recovery
of its flood-devastated regions. Notably, the EPP Portuguese delegation voted against it. The
majority in the S&D group voted against or abstained, but the British and Swedish delegations
voted in favour. The British Members also in the ECR group supported the deal, while their
Eastern European colleagues abstained.
Centre-right secures majority to limit the Commission's authority of supervising bilateral
investment treaties (BITs) between Member States and third countries. The Centre-left
opposed the move
10 May 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/transitional-arrangements-for-bilateral-investmentagreements-between-member-states-and-third-countr-2.html
The EPP, ALDE and ECR groups rallied their members to secure a majority to water down the
Commission's proposal that would have allowed it to review national BITs and withdraw its
authorization from them, if necessary. The Commission had proposed a regulation that would
require all Member States to notify the Commission of all of their BITs, in exchange for which
they would be authorised to maintain these agreements in force. After reviewing these
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treaties, the Commission could then withdraw this authorization, if the BIT in question
conflicts with EU law, overlaps with an EU investment agreement with the same country, or
conflicts with EU investment policy more generally. The S&D, Greens/EFA and GUE/NGL
groups supported the initial version of the text as proposed by the Commission and voted
against the revised version, but were defeated. Click here to see a breakdown of votes and
more information.
EU-South Korea Free Trade Agreement
17 January 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/free-trade-agreement-between-the-eu-and-the-republic-onkorea-draft-legislative-resolution-recommend.html
The European Parliament voted in favour of the FTA that aims to eliminate 98% of import
duties - 1.6 billion euro of South Korean duties and 1.1 billion euro of EU duties - as well as
trade barriers in manufactured goods, agricultural products and services over the next five
years. While a majority of 465 MEPs voted in favour, the radical left (GUE/NGL) and the
Greens/EFA groups, as well as 25 Socialists and Democrats (S&D) members from France and
Italy opposed the agreement. Click to see how each MEP voted and the text of the agreement.
The House also adopted a Safeguard Clause to accompany the FTA, which allows the EU
industry and governments to request a re-imposition of duties if surging imports hurt EU
producers. This time the Greens/EFA and the GUE/NGL groups abstained, while the rest of
the MEPs voted in favour. Click to see how MEPs voted and the text of the Safeguard Clause.
Macro-financial assistance for the Republic of Moldova
7 September 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/macro-financial-assistance-for-the-republic-of-moldovadraft-legislative-resolution-single-vote-ordi.html
Moldova was set to receive a 90 million euro grant from the EU to cope with the problems
caused by the economic crisis. The Parliament agreed to the deal by a large majority, with
only the anti-European EFD group opposing it. The decision now needs the endorsement of
the Council in order to entry into force (see distribution of votes and text).
Macro-financial assistance for Ukraine
18 May 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/macro-financial-assistance-for-ukraine-draft-legislativeresolution-vote-legislative-resolution-ordi.html
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A maximum of €500 million EU loan will be available to Ukraine for 30 months. The decision
was taken by the EP with a comfortable majority, with only the EFD group opposing it. The
loan, due to be repaid within 15 years, would help Kiev to finance its balance-of-payments
deficit and meet its budgetary needs (see distribution of votes and text).
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14. Legal affairs
MEPs approve rules on music copyright
4 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/copyright-and-related-rights-and-multi-territorial-licensingof-rights-in-musical-works-for-online-u.html
A legislative report setting new rules on music copyright in the EU was approved by the MEPs.
The new Directive aims to boost the development of cross-border and EU wide music services,
by simplifying the procedures for obtaining licenses of author's rights. According to the new
legislation, EU citizens will have easier access to copyright music from other Member States.
The legislation will also ensure that the artists' rights and interests will be better protected
(including on-time and fair payment of royalties).
The report was approved by a large majority, consisting of all political groups in the EP (640
votes in favour to only 18 against). Click here to see how each MEP voted.
MEPs agree on simplified procedures for people moving to a different EU country
4 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/promoting-free-movement-by-simplifying-the-acceptance-ofcertain-public-documents-draft-legislative-.html
The European Parliament adopted a legislative report calling for eased mobility procedures
for EU citizens, in a quest to reduce the administrative burdens that many people face when
travelling or moving to another EU country. Considering that mobility is an essential element
of EU integration, the MEPs pushed a text forward, which simplifies the formalities of proving
authenticity to certain public documents (such as university diplomas, birth and marriage
certificates). The report adopted in the plenary goes beyond the Commission´s initial
proposal, by stating that a greater number of documents should fall under the new rules.
Optional multilingual forms, as an alternative to national forms, were also proposed. This EU
regulation still needs to be voted on in the Council of Ministers.
The report passed with 573 votes in favour to 62 against. The votes against came from the
ECR group and almost half of the EFD group.
Click here to see how each MEP voted.
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Parliament gives green light to staffing rules for the External Action Service
20 October 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/amendment-of-the-staff-regulations-of-officials-of-theeuropean-communities-and-the-conditions-of-em.html
The House adopted the report providing the rules to be followed when hiring the staff for the
EU diplomatic corps. The text, that does not make any references to quotas for new Member
States as some had requested, was adopted by a large majority, with only the euro-sceptic
EFD and radical-left GUE/NGL voting against.
However, a significant split is noticeable inside the EPP group, with MEPs from Romania,
Hungary, Bulgaria, Slovakia and half of the Polish delegation voting against or abstaining. Click
to see the distribution of votes and text.
Red-tape reduction for micro-firms
10 March 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/annual-accounts-of-certain-types-of-companies-as-regardsmicro-entities-draft-legislative-resolution.html
Very small companies could be exempted from having to draw up annual reports, but this
decision is still left to be taken by each member state. The proposal was carried by a centreright majority (EPP+ECR+EFD) and the Greens/EFA group, while most of the socialist (S&D)
and radical left (GUE/NGL) MEPs voted against the text, as they fear this will lead to less
transparency by the companies. However, there were some notable splits inside the groups:
most German and UK MEPs within the S&D group voted in favour; liberal (ALDE) French and
Italian MEPs voted against; within the EPP, the Belgian and French MEPs voted against, while
the Austrians abstained (see distribution of votes and text). The Directive still needs the
approval of the Council, where a blocking minority has put the proposal on hold.
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15. Transport & tourism
EP approves revision of air passenger rights rules
5 February 2014
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/compensation-and-assistance-to-passengers-in-the-event-ofdenied-boarding-and-of-cancellation-or-lon-3.html
The European Parliament approved at first reading a revision of the current legislation on EU
passenger rights. According to the new rules, largely backed by the MEPs, the passengers will
have eased access to compensation, in cases of delayed flights and cancellations, as well as
for problems with luggage (such as loss or deterioration). The text provides a clearer definition
of "extraordinary circumstances", in which airlines do not have to pay compensation. This is
an attempt to reduce the number of times in which companies unjustly do not pay
compensation, due to the lack of clarification of definitions. The text also tackles maximum
cabin luggage allowance, including handbags, coats and airport shopping bags in the free
hand luggage category.
The EP adopted the report with 580 votes in favour to 41 against. If further adopted by the
Council, the new rules might enter into force from next year. Click here to see how each MEP
voted.
Updated legislation for a Single European railway area
16 November 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/single-european-railway-area-draft-legislative-resolutionvote-legislative-resolution-text-as-a-whol.html
The EP adopted a recast of the 2001 EU Directive aimed at integrating the railway
infrastructure. A European Railways Regulatory body will require Member States to ensure
the proper conditions for stimulating competition in this sector both internally and crosscountry. Parliament asks the European Commission to table a proposal by the end of 2012 to
complete the separation of rail infrastructure management from the operation of rail
transport services and open up national rail passenger transport markets to competition. The
legislative resolution was adopted with large support from most of the political groups.
However, the GUE/NGL voted against, the Greens/EFA abstained, while the ECR group was
split perfectly in half, with the British delegation voting against and the Polish and Czech
delegations voting in favour. Click here for votes and more information.
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Parliament backs new rules for bus and coach passengers
15 February 2011
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/rights-of-passengers-in-bus-and-coach-transport-draftlegislative-resolution-ordinary-legislative-pr.html
A resolution providing for the rights of passengers, including the right of compensation for
delays and damaged luggage was passed by the House in the form adopted by the conciliation
committee (between the Parliament and the Council). The text was supported by the EPP,
S&D and ECR groups and opposed by the Greens/EFA, while the liberals and democrats (ALDE)
and the GUE/NGL groups have abstained. Click to see how each MEP voted and the text of
the law.
Investigation and prevention of accidents and incidents in civil aviation
21 September 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/investigation-and-prevention-of-accidents-and-incidents-incivil-aviation-draft-legislative-resoluti-2.html
New rules aimed at reducing vulnerability of gas supply to European citizens were adopted
by the Parliament, under the co-decision procedure. The regulations provide that Member
States should boost infrastructure development in the next 2 years so as to be able to redirect gas supply to each other in the case of a crisis. The Commission will be in charge of
coordinating the national plans. The legislative resolution was carried by a large majority, with
only the radical-left (GUE/NGL) and the British EFD members opposing it (see distribution of
votes and text).
Red tape to be cut for ships in EU ports
6 July 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/reporting-formalities-for-ships-arriving-in-or-departing-fromports-draft-legislative-resolution-vot.html
A legislative resolution for a EU directive aiming at the harmonization and coordination of
reporting formalities throughout the EU was been adopted by a large majority in the
Parliament, with only the anti-European EFD group opposing it (click to see distribution of
votes and text).
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Aviation security charges
5 May 2010
http://www.votewatch.eu/en/aviation-security-charges-draft-legislative-resolution-votelegislative-resolution-ordinary-legislat.html
The cost of additional security measures in airports are to be borne by member states, not
passengers, according to a legislative resolution (first reading) voted in the EP on airport
security. The resolution as a whole was carried by a large majority. However, two
amendments drafted by the Greens/ALE group and supported by the S&D and GUE/NGL were
voted down by a centre-right majority made up of ALDE+EPP+ECR+EFD (see distribution of
votes and text). VoteWatch's monitoring of European Parliament decisions shows that votes
are generally dominated by a centre-right majority in the Transport & Tourism policy area.
(Details here).
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