After various discussions at EU level, the Council had originally concluded that the option that called for a profound reform would be the best way forward. This conclusion was in line with what Malta had argued in favour of, since it represented the best way forward to guaranteeing quality, control and sustainability.
The crux in the political discussions was reached today when the Portuguese Presidency presented its latest compromise. The reform contains a number of positive elements such as increased National Envelopes which will be instrumental in helping the sector in accordance with the exigencies of the different European regions, and the late negotiation has substantially increased Malta’s financial allocation.
Malta smaller than Wales yet independent and a full member state of the EU fighting for its exclusive national interests and winning. The British will never be able to represent the exclusive national interests of Wales at EU Council of Ministers meetings, far better for Wales to have its own Minister at those meeting (with the same rights as other full member states) fighting for our exclusive national interests and winning. Just like Estonia, Latvia, Luxembourg, Cyprus, Malta and Slovenia do (all smaller than Wales, all independent and all full member states of the EU).