Warning over new European powers

Britain needs to be prepared for counter-moves by the European Parliament to gain more control over EU foreign policy, a Government review is warning. 

The Foreign Office published the first six of its reports on the UK's relations with Europe as ministers sought to lay the ground for David Cameron's promised re-negotiation of the terms of Britain's EU membership.

Foreign Secretary William Hague said the reports - covering the single market, health, development co-operation and humanitarian aid, foreign policy, animal health and welfare and food safety, and taxation - were an essential contribution to the debate on Britain's EU future.

"At a time when the EU is facing considerable challenges and discussion on the EU in Britain is intensifying, it is vitally important that the debate in the UK is as well-informed as possible," he said.

"These reports make a valuable contribution, not only to the debate in this country but also to the debate taking place in other European nations about the future of the EU."

The reports, drawn up by officials, do not make recommendations but attempt to summarise how the EU both helps and hinders the UK. The report on foreign affairs raises concerns about the performance of EU institutions such as the diplomatic service - the external action service headed by Baroness Ashton.

"If the internal conditions of EU external action deteriorate, how will that affect our choices of how to deliver international impact in the British interest?" the report asks.

"If the institution's performance does not improve, or if there is an undesirable shift in control away from the member states, such as a greater role for the European Parliament, how will we alter our approach, what will the constraints be, and how will we use or develop our other partnerships and alliances as alternative vehicles?"

The report on health raised concerns about the impact of EU regulations - such as the working time directive (WTD) and data protection laws - on the NHS.

"There was a strong view that it is important to consult more with health departments and their stakeholders on these areas from the outset. A number of concerns were raised about the negative impact of the WTD on the NHS," it said.