New VAT system
Schengen: MEPs to call for fair decision on whether Bulgaria and Romania can join
Was it “fair” or “legal” for the Netherlands and Finland to block a bid by Bulgaria and Romania to join the Schengen border check-free area? MEPs say the candidates already meet all Schengen membership requirements, and should not be held hostage to populist discourse. Parliament will put the question to the Commission and the Council, and vote a resolution on Thursday.
Getting ready for the European Council
Topics for the 23 October European Council in Brussels will be debated Wednesday with the Council and the Commission. Economic policy, particularly EU competitiveness and growth, and preparations for the next G20 Summit and the Durban conference on climate change, both in November, are high on the agenda.
MEPs to discuss the situation in Yemen and Bahrain
The latest developments in Yemen and in Bahrain are on the agenda for a Wednesday evening debate with the Council.
New rules on firearms exports
New EU export control rules for civil-use firearms, such as sports and hunting weapons, will be put to a vote on Thursday. The bill has already been informally agreed with the Council. Parliament wants to ensure maximum safety, but also to preclude unnecessary checks on hunters and sports shooters leaving the EU temporarily.
Other items
Shaping Europe’s new VAT system
Duty-free trade for the Western Balkans
