To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the Government's response was to the European Commission's proposal to extend to 15 June 2008 the deadline for member states to make proposals for reform of the EU Budget; and what discussions he has had with the Commission on its proposal. (207850)

The Government welcome the EU Budget Review and look forward to playing an active role in the debate. The extension to the deadline by three months for contributions to the EU Budget Review public consultation is a matter for the European Commission, but we welcome efforts by the Commission to ensure a comprehensive consultation process.