EU: Economic Governance

Lord Stoddart of Swindon Excerpts

Wednesday 27th October 2010 Lords Chamber

[Lord Sassoon]

My Lords, I sometimes struggle to speak for all the policy matters covered by Her Majesty’s Treasury, which are wide enough. I absolutely cannot speak for what the leaders of France and Germany are going to say when they come to the council tomorrow. I am sure that the Government will be prepared to answer any proposals that come forward. We will hear more about this after the meeting on Monday.

[Lord Stoddart of Swindon]

My Lords, would not any proposals coming from France, Germany or anywhere else for a treaty change require to be passed by unanimity? If so, can we have an assurance that the Government will not agree to any such change? If they do—to take up the point made by the noble Lord, Lord Richard—can we have an absolute assurance that there will be a referendum?

[Lord Sassoon]

My Lords, I do not think that I can add anything to my earlier answers on this matter. I have tried to make the position as clear as possible. We will treat any proposed treaty changes on their merits and depending on whether they suggest any changes in competences between the UK and Brussels.

[Lord Stoddart of Swindon]

Does that require unanimity?

[Lord Sassoon]

Yes.