The House of Representatives debates about the European Council

2 February 2011

On Thursday 3 February at 1:30 p.m, the House of Representatives will debate with Prime Minister Rutte about the European Council on Friday 4 February.

On Thursday 3 February at 1:30 p.m, the House of Representatives will debate with Prime Minister Rutte about the European Council on Friday 4 February.





Until now, the House of Representatives used to hold a preliminary committee meeting prior to the European Council. It was also common to hold a plenary debate after the European Council. The new process should help the House of Representatives to improve the discussion with the government about the Dutch stake during the European Council. For example, MPs will be able to directly perform motions about the government’s viewpoint during the European Council.





Energy and innovation


During the European Council on 4 February, the government leaders will speak mainly about the subjects energy and innovation. As regards energy issues, discussions will focus on viable means of providing affordable, sustainable and secure energy to European citizens. Leaders will aim to enhance cooperation on clean energy technologies, energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.






Euro and Egypt



Furthermore, the participants will consider the role of innovation in tackling societal challenges and the need to channel public support to a greater extent to areas such as research and innovation, education and energy. In all likelihood, the debate will also cover de stability of the Euro. Specifically about the actual situation in Egypt and de reaction of the European Union on this subject.





For more information on the European Council, please visit:
www.european-council.europa.eu.