Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2001-12-17-Speech-1-102"
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"en.20011217.3.1-102"2
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"The first two sentences of the Laeken Declaration about the debilitating effects of the two World Wars confirm my belief that the European Union is a force for good in the world and Britain, like all other Member States, derives great benefit from the existence of the EU.
The remains of my grandfather, like many others, lie somewhere in Flanders on the battlefield of the Somme. My father fought in Montgomery's army in Flanders for the liberation of Brussels. I am still in Flanders, the third generation of my humble family, fighting here for Britain's interests. Can there be any doubt as to which generation has got right the way to work out Europe's relations?
The simple certainties of the 20th century are less clear in the complexities of the 21st century. As I read on in the Laeken Declaration I recall the saying we have in English that, like the curate's egg, it is good in parts. I particularly like the reference that we are a continent of liberty and, above all, of diversity. Unlike the United States of America, Europe is a voluntary association of sovereign independent states. We must never forget that.
Of course we need European-level institutions but let us also recall the wise words of Jacques Santer: "Europe must do less better". There needs to be a clearer definition of subsidiarity on "less". Only go to European level for that which can only be done at European level. On "better" I urge Commission and Council to look closely at the call of this Parliament for a uniform and compulsory code of good administrative behaviour.
The response I received to a Parliamentary question last week from the Commission was dismissive of Parliament's call made in September for such a uniform and compulsory code. That is not the right attitude, nor is it the way to get the European public on side. The case for such a code has been set up by the Ombudsman, Jacob Söderman. I am pleased he will be an observer at the Convention but I would say to Commission and Council that you would do well to listen to him as well as to allow him to observe.
As the final speaker from the floor this year, may I wish all the staff, all the Members and all the people of Europe a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year."@en1
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