To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his policy is on the attendance of foreign ministers of EU member states at meetings of the European Council; and if he will make a statement. (312231)

The Treaty is clear that the European Council comprises the Heads of State or Government of the 27 member states of the EU, chaired by the President of the European Council and with the President of the European Commission and the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy also in attendance. The Treaty also makes clear that members of the European Council can decide to be assisted by another Minister “where the agenda so requires”. The European Council at its December 2009 meeting discussed the issue, and Foreign Ministers are likely to attend the European Council at least once a year.