As the European Parliament states in its announcement, the first procedural steps have been taken and President Roberta Metsola will announce the request to the Plenary at the earliest possible opportunity on January 16
Urgent proceedings to lift the immunity of two members of the European Parliament have been initiated by President Roberta Metzola, at the request of the Belgian judicial authorities.
As the European Parliament states in its announcement, the first procedural steps have been taken and the President will announce the request to the Plenary at the earliest possible opportunity on January 16. The request will then be referred to the Legal Affairs Committee (JURI) for a proposed decision.
“From the outset the European Parliament has done everything in its power to assist in the investigations and we will continue to ensure that there is no impunity. Those responsible will find this House on the side of the law. Corruption cannot pay and we will do everything to fight it,” the president said.
At the same time, the president is also expected to outline her intentions for reforms in the coming weeks, including revising existing rules and improving internal systems.
Waiver of Immunity Procedure
As stated in the Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament (Article 6 and Article 9), requests to waive immunity are announced by the President to the Plenary and then referred to the competent Committee (Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI).
The Legal Affairs Committee (JURI) appoints a rapporteur, cases are presented at a committee meeting and a hearing may be held.
The draft report will be discussed and voted on in JURI. The committee adopts a recommendation to the full Parliament to approve or reject the request. All immunity cases are considered in camera.
The proposal is then submitted to the Plenary. If approved by the Plenary (simple majority), the Speaker will immediately notify the Parliament’s decision to the member(s) concerned and the relevant national authority.
The President asked all agencies and committees to prioritize this process with the aim of completing it by February 13, 2023.
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