13 December 2007
Gordon Brown has signed the EU Treaty in Lisbon ahead of the EU Council starting tomorrow.
The Prime Minister travelled to Portugal after answering questions at the cross-party Liaison Committee in the House of Commons. Speaking during the session, the PM said that the Lisbon Treaty was "in Britain’s interest" and that MPs would have the chance to debate elements of the agreement in Parliament.
In a statement released before the committee meeting, the PM also said that the EU was in a position to move on from constitutional questions and focus on global issues such as financial stability, trade, economic reform and climate change.
The PM said:
"In Brussels on Friday, EU leaders will discuss our response to globalisation. We are agreeing a strong declaration, recognising that we must engage our international partners and work together within stronger multilateral organisations.
"We have an opportunity to demonstrate that the EU is open and outward looking, and focused on the opportunities and challenges of globalisation. Globalisation has created unprecedented levels of growth, trade and jobs, and brought economic prosperity to millions. It has the potential to do the same for millions more."
Foreign Secretary David Miliband signed the treaty with other EU leaders prior to the PM’s arrival. Mr Brown is expected to attend the EU Council in Brussels tomorrow where EU premiers will discuss future priorities in light of the treaty’s conclusion.
Image copyright: Reuters
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