European Parliament
Richard James Ashworth (PPE-DE ),
in writing
The British Conservative group acknowledge the benefits of the interinstitutional agreement and in particular applaud the provision for the parliament to take a more influential role in the 2008-2009 review. We also warmly welcome the requirement for the national authorities to accept greater accountability for the money they spend.
We would point out; however, that the compromise deal struck between the parties fails to adequately address the problems that confront the European Union today. In particular it has missed a rare opportunity to alter the political priorities and instead has continued to fund the traditional spending programmes.

