eurealist.co.uk

The Press:

The draft European Union Constitutional Treaty threatens Member States’ national control over energy sources.
(Dagens Industri, 4 December, 2003)

The Facts:

This is complete nonsense. The current text of the draft Constitutional Treaty merely simplifies and clarifies already existing arrangements under previous treaties (most recently the Treaty of Nice). This in no way affects Member States’ choice of energy sources and in no way puts into question national sovereignty over energy resources.

Notes:

Playing with words- there is the European Energy Policy which aims towards a common energy foreign policy; creating an internal market for energy; guaranteeing security of supply; promoting the use of renewable energy; and promoting research into energy technology. All of which are underpinned by EU legislation.

 The Lisbon Treaty goes further than the constitution in that  it adds an extra aim “to promote the interconnection of energy networks” as well as stating that energy policy should be carried out in a “spirit of solidarity” among member states.

 There is a veto clause, which states that decisions “significantly affecting a member state’s choice between different energy sources and the general structure of its energy supply” are to be taken by unanimity. But this does not mean the EU is not involved it only means that we have retained a veto should a proposal be taken to a vote.

 So once again the press report is totally accurate:

 The draft European Union Constitutional Treaty threatens Member States’ national control over energy sources.

We cannot both have total national control when we are obliged to follow EU legislation and act in a sprit of solidarity with 27 other member states.