The primary function of the EU Member States’ parliaments, alongside law-making, has always been to approve taxation. In contrast, the European Union cannot raise taxes, as this is a prerogative that remains within the remit of the Member States and will continue to do so until such time as the EU is given its own resources. The EU does, however, have a budget with which to fund European policies and run the European institutions.

I intend to devote all my energy, experience and know-how to making the EU budget a genuine driving force for growth and jobs. With this in mind, I am determined to ensure that the opportunity which the mid-term review of the multiannual financial framework provides for a thorough renegotiation of that framework with the Council is seized. We will also be addressing a number of other important issues, including the budget for the euro zone, the introduction of a genuine own-resources system and the long-standing problem of outstanding commitments. The Committee on Budgets intends to do everything within its power to give the EU a new impetus and a new meaning.

With my very best wishes,

Jean Arthuis