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Lord Shore of Stepney
asked Her Majesty's Government:What changes have been made at Nice to the Amsterdam Treaty's Provisions for "enhanced co-operation", and in particular whether under Clause G of the General Principles on Enhanced Co-operation, while a member of the Council may request that a matter be referred to the European Council, a final decision will be taken there by a qualified majority vote and not, as previously, by unanimity. [HL382]
Baroness Ramsay of Cartvale
At Nice we agreed changes to the enhanced co-operation arrangements which mean that enhanced co-operation will:
- be extended to Pillar II for the implementation of policies that have previously been agreed by unanimity. It will not cover defence;
- involve at least eight member states;
- not undermine the Single Market;
- be open to all member states. A new duty is placed on the Commission to encourage the participation of as many member states as possible;
- respect the rights of non-participating member states;
- be used only as a last resort;
- not form part of the acquis;
- be funded by the participating member states.