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European Council

I know that the right hon. Gentleman is a member of the European Scrutiny Committee, but my perception, from a position of some scepticism about whether the EU is moving, is that there is a real process of change. I have given some figures indicating that. The Commission is starting work on the most heavily regulated sectors—cars, waste and constructions. Other sectors—foodstuffs, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and services—will follow. One example is the directive on registration, evaluation and authorisation of chemicals. Had it gone through six or seven years ago, it would have meant very heavy regulation, which would have seriously damaged the Europe-wide chemical industry. We managed to get it agreed under our presidency in a form that was acceptable to most people representing the chemical industry. My notes tell me that it led to the cost of the proposal being reduced by up to €660 million. There are other proposals, too, that are aimed at improving EU competitiveness. Things are changing. On the right hon. Gentleman’s last point, I have had no discussion with Commissioner Verheugen to suggest that he intends to avoid the existing acquis, and nor do we.