14.11.2014
The work of a newly elected European Parliament and European Commission appointments will be the subject of discussion on Thursday 20 November when Scottish MEPs appear at the European and External Relations Committee for the first time since their election.
MEPs David Coburn, Ian Duncan, Ian Hudghton, David Martin and Catherine Stihler will talk with the Committee about some of the key issues facing Europe and the European Parliament, including:
- The recent European Parliament (EP) elections – what impact the new line up of MEPs might have, and what the priorities of the EP might be over the 2014-19 session.
- The new College of Commissioners and the future direction of the Commission – the selection process, the new Commissioner remits and the challenges facing the Commission over the next five years .
- The potential work programmes of EP committees that the Scottish MEPs sit on.
- Important EU issues of relevance to Scotland of which the Scottish MEPs think the Committee should be aware.
European and External Relations Committee Convener Christina McKelvie MSP said:
“From TTIP to the free movement of people, there has rarely been a time when decisions taken at a European level have been more topical. I am pleased we are able to host this session and help people understand more about the work of the European institutions.”
Alyn Smith MEP is unable to attend but has provided his thoughts in writing to the Committee ahead of the meeting. MEPs David Coburn, Ian Duncan, Ian Hudghton and David Martin will speak to the Committee via video conference. Catherine Stihler will speak to the Committee in person at the Scottish Parliament.
Background
Papers for the Committee will be available on Friday afternoon here:
http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/CurrentCommittees/29814.aspx
The meeting will be broadcast live on the Parliament’s website and photographs will be available free of charge afterwards.
You can also follow the work of the Committee on Twitter: @SP_Europe