"Alter-EU will be watching how well the new rules are implemented and advocating for new improvements in the run-up to the review that is planned before the next parliamentary elections."
On 1 December, an overwhelming majority of MEPs (619 in favour, two against and six abstentions) endorsed a code of conduct for deputies, thereby seeking to modify the EP's rules of procedure and fight conflicts of interest. Its proper implementation will be key to its success.
The Alliance for Lobbying Transparency and Ethics Regulation (ALTER-EU)
The code will increase transparency and introduce rules to avoid conflicts of interest. ALTER-EU regrets, however, the lack of measures to stop MEPs moving into lobbying jobs without a cooling-off period, and the weakening of proposed rules regarding gifts that would allow MEPs to accept paid trips to luxury destinations from interest groups.
On 1 December, MEPs will vote on the proposed MEPs' Code of Conduct, following its approval by the Constitutional Affairs Committee. Under the proposed rules, MEPs would not be allowed to receive money in order to lobby their colleagues and they would have to declare their outside financial interests in a strict way.
Euro-deputies in the key committee dealing with parliamentary rules on Thursday (17 November) approved a new code of conduct obliging them to more transparency and disclosure after a cash-for-amendments scandal uncovered earlier this year.