Letter to Mr Peter Hain MP, Chairman,
Modernisation Committee from José Manuel Barroso, President,
European Commission José
Thank you for your letter dated 9 December 2004.
I apologise for the delay in sending my reply.
The Commission attaches great importance to the role
played by national parliaments in scrutinising the preparation
and the implementation of European legislation. My decision to
include the responsibility for relations with the national parliaments
in Vice President Wallström's portfolio clearly signals the
Commission's commitment. The Commission is keen to help make this
task easier for national parliaments, particularly by better explaining
its proposals.
I was very interested to read about the initiative
currently being considered by the Modernisation Committee of the
House of Commons which I believe could contribute to a better
examination of the Commission proposals.
I want to reiterate what Vice President Wallström
has already signalled to you, i.e. that we see it as the Commission's
obligation always to be accessible and prepared to assist the
national parliaments in their enquiries into EU policy.
This said, for agenda reasons, Members of the Commission
may not always be able to participate in work of national assemblies
for each European debate.
Therefore, the Commission will, in consultation with
the national parliaments, endeavour to find the most effective
and viable ways of communicating and discussing issues, for example,
its strategic objectives and work programs, with national parliaments
and their elected Members.
February 2005
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