Written question asked by Lord Brady of Altrincham (Conservative) on Wednesday, 3 May 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 May 2006. It was answered by Liam Byrne (Labour) on Monday, 15 May 2006 on behalf of the Home Office.

Europol

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether it is his Department's policy to support proposals (a) to fund Europol directly from the EU budget, (b) to strengthen its mandate, (c) to increase the number of permanent staff at Europol and (d) to give the European Parliament a role in its supervision and management; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: [holding answer 8 May 2006]: The future of Europol is currently being examined within a 'Friends of the Presidency Group.' All member states, the commission and Europol itself are represented on the group. It will report to the JHA Council in June.The Government believe that Europol should have at its disposal the resources required to achieve its aims. The permanent staff of Europol has recently increased by 47 and the Government would look at any future bids for more staff in light of the business case for them.

Secondary information