EP this week: UK referendum, Nato, car emissions - Main contents
MEPs debate the UK referendum on the country's EU membership on Wednesday during this month's Brussels plenary. In addition there is a public hearing on how to test car emissions as well as a discussion on gun controls. Meanwhile on Tuesday MEPs meet with Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and the EU's foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini.
Plenary
MEPs meet for a plenary session in Brussels on Wednesday and Thursday. The UK referendum on EU membership is to be debated on Wednesday following last week's EU summit. After two days of intensive talks, the UK and the other member states agreed that if the country votes on 23 June to remain in the EU, it will have the right to temporarily limit migrant welfare payments, be able to easier block unwanted regulations and not be discriminated for not being in the euro zone.
In addition MEPs vote on measures to offer job-seekers better access to job offers across borders
Also during plenary MEPs vote on a proposal to temporarily raise the amount of olive oil that can be imported duty free from Tunisia. They will also discuss and vote on recommendations for further talks on an free trade agreement with the country.
Committees
On Tuesday the environment committee holds a public hearing with stakeholders on car emissions tests. In February MEPs decided against vetoing a delegated act proposing to temporarily raise NOx emission limits for diesel cars after the Commission promised to include a review clause.
The internal market committee discusses on Tuesday gun control in the EU. The aim is to keep better track of firearms and ensure better oversight of weapons purchases.
The foreign affairs committee and the security and defence subcommittee meet Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday. Nato has been asked to take on an active role in handling the influx of refugees in the eastern Mediterranean.
Also on Tuesday the foreign affairs committee discusses new developments with the EU's foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini.
REF. : 20160222STO15240