Foreign Office warns of EU counter-moves

Britain must be prepared for counter-moves by the European Parliament to gain more control over EU foreign policy, a government review warned yesterday.

William Hague: A valuable contribution to debate on EU. Picture: AP

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 renegotiation 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.

“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,” he said.

The reports, drawn up by officials, do not make recommendations but attempt to summarise how the EU both helps and hinders the UK.

The foreign affairs report raises concerns about the performance of EU institutions such as the diplomatic service. “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?” it asks.