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29/10/2010
Twelve Countries Back UK Budget Push
The Prime Minister has announced the backing of twelve countries in the push for a smaller rise in the EU budget.
During a press conference in Brussels, David Cameron welcomed the support to stop the 5.9% increase.
He also expressed confidence in next year's EU budget rise being limited to 2.9%, saying the leaders of the twelve countries would be "good to their word".
He added: "Of course, that's not welcome to some of the member states, it's not particularly welcome to the commission. But we've said that and it will be stuck to."
However many agree, the £81 billion in domestic cuts being planned by the Government at a 2.9% increase would not be seen as a victory.
Those in support to stop the 5.9% increase include: France, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Finalnd, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Estonia.
Negotiations will now get under way between Herman Van Rompuy - the head of the European Council, and the European Parliament to favour the larger figure.
However, those backing the UK can form a "blocking minority".
Last week, the Prime Minister said he wanted to "freeze or cut" the budget - but British taxpayers remain unhappy as the 2.9% increase will still cost an additional £450m.
David Cameron has also obtained support from all EU leaders that, in future, the budget should reflect spending cuts being made by national governments.
At home, the Prime Minister is also facing difficulties from the Tory camp over changes to the Lisbon Treaty.
(BMcN)
During a press conference in Brussels, David Cameron welcomed the support to stop the 5.9% increase.
He also expressed confidence in next year's EU budget rise being limited to 2.9%, saying the leaders of the twelve countries would be "good to their word".
He added: "Of course, that's not welcome to some of the member states, it's not particularly welcome to the commission. But we've said that and it will be stuck to."
However many agree, the £81 billion in domestic cuts being planned by the Government at a 2.9% increase would not be seen as a victory.
Those in support to stop the 5.9% increase include: France, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Finalnd, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Estonia.
Negotiations will now get under way between Herman Van Rompuy - the head of the European Council, and the European Parliament to favour the larger figure.
However, those backing the UK can form a "blocking minority".
Last week, the Prime Minister said he wanted to "freeze or cut" the budget - but British taxpayers remain unhappy as the 2.9% increase will still cost an additional £450m.
David Cameron has also obtained support from all EU leaders that, in future, the budget should reflect spending cuts being made by national governments.
At home, the Prime Minister is also facing difficulties from the Tory camp over changes to the Lisbon Treaty.
(BMcN)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A dry day with long spells of sunshine for most, however eastern coasts will see rather more in the way of cloud at times, with just the risk of an odd light morning shower. Mainly light northerly winds. Maximum temperature 13 °C.Tonight:A fine end to the day with some evening sunshine. It remains dry overnight with a touch of frost possible in places, although cloud is expected to increase towards dawn. Minimum temperature 0 °C.
