Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lord Hammond of Runnymede and Andrea Jenkyns

Tuesday 20th October 2015 Commons Chamber

[Chris Davies (Brecon and Radnorshire) (Con)]

5. What assessment he has made of the progress of negotiations to reform (a) the EU and (b) the UK’s relationship with the EU.

[Andrea Jenkyns (Morley and Outwood) (Con)]

14. What assessment he has made of the progress of negotiations to reform (a) the EU and (b) the UK’s relationship with the EU.

[The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr Philip Hammond)]

We are making good progress in our discussions on reform of the EU at both a political and technical level. We will continue discussions with our EU colleagues as well as with the European Parliament and Commission ahead of the December European Council. As the Prime Minister said last week, he will also be writing to the president of the European Council in early November to set out the areas of change that we wish to achieve.

[Mr Hammond]

My hon. Friend is right to point out that concern. It is the case that the eurozone states will have a qualified majority between them in due course. That is why part of this negotiation is about putting in place a framework to govern relationships and decision making between eurozone and non-eurozone states so that the interests of the non-eurozone states are protected as the eurozone proceeds with the closer integration that—in our judgment—will be necessary to ensure that the euro is a successful currency. That is something that is greatly in the interests of the United Kingdom.

[Andrea Jenkyns]

For the past two years, the residents of Morley and Outwood have been telling me of their concerns about EU migration, free movement of people and access to our NHS benefits and other services. What assurances can my right hon. Friend give them that those concerns will be addressed in the renegotiations?