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European Council, 16–17 June

My Lords, I agree that we should not have heightened or extravagant expectations under our presidency. Part of the reason for that is, to a certain extent, that we are seen as parti pris with respect to the negotiations. That does not mean that we cannot play a role, and we fully intend to do so in taking the discussions forward. Of course we recognise the difficulties that may be   presented to the 10 new countries and their need for a degree of certainty. We will look closely at any possibilities of making proposals that would take some of their concerns on board.