By Matt Williams - 12th December 2007
STRASBOURG – MEPs expressed cautious optimism towards the Lisbon treaty in a debate covering the forthcoming European council.
During Wednesday’s debate, most MEPs welcomed the new treaty, which will be signed on Thursday, 13 December, but stressed that it was just one step towards make the EU better at tackling issues such as globalisation and climate change.
Centre-right deputy Joseph Daul said that the signing of the Lisbon treaty would give the EU a greater sense of direction.
“We are witnessing the return of a results-orientated Europe. Two years of uncertainty and lack of progress are coming to and end,” he said.
Daul however stressed that European parliament had to use its new powers effectively, and to make its members and its work better know among the citizens.
“We have to be more tough-minded…and adopt a higher profile,” he said.
Socialist MEP Martin Schulz was however more cautious towards the Lisbon treaty, saying that the treaty is merely a ceremonial process, like a wedding, and that it requires strong commitment for this “marriage” to work.
“We are going to a new wedding. I hope that we won’t see a petition for divorce being handed out,” he said.
Liberal deputy Andrew Duff was pleased that the UK had agreed to participate in the signing of the treaty.
“I’m delighted that prime minister Brown has finally agreed to show up for the signing, although he will be late. I’m afraid that is par for the course when it comes to British participation in the EU,” he said.
Duff went on to warn about Britain’s uncertain commitment to the Lisbon treaty.
“Please be careful that Mr Brown signs the treaty in pen rather than in pencil,” he added.
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