International

On 6th December, International Anti-Corruption Day, SP Euro-MP Dennis de Jong spoke at a meeting on European political parties organised by Transparency International (TI). The international anti-corruption NGO showed itself to be extremely critical of the European Commission’s proposals on political parties which they argue leave a great deal of space for bribery and careless spending. ‘I share completely Transparency International’s concerns,’ says De Jong. ‘In addition, these plans are a clear move towards a federal Europe, without this having popular support. The European parties which as a result of these proposals would acquire legal personality are artificial constructions. The proposals also open the door for EU interference in whichever national parties may participate in the European elections. This poses a great danger to the democratic tradition.’

29-11-2012 • SP Member of Parliament Sharon Gesthuizen describes herself as ‘deeply disappointed’ in the outcome of discussions of the budget for the department responsible for immigration and asylum. Last week a majority in Parliament lent support to a proposal from the SP requesting the provision of humane conditions for asylum seekers whose applications have been rejected after exhausting all procedures. Despite the majority vote, the Secretary of State responsible, Fred Teeven, has failed to act on the motion’s demands.