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We have another stab at explaining things European in
The European Parliament represents, in the words of the 1957 Treaty of Rome, 'the peoples of the States brought together in the European Community'. Some 375 million European citizens in 15 countries are now involved in the process of European integration through their 626 representatives in the European Parliament.
Can the Parliament make laws?
Strictly speaking, the answer is no. However by the co-decision procedure the Parliament has a hand in laws formulated by the European Commission which it can amend. On matters of farm prices and taxes it can only give an opinion.
Is it becoming more powerful?
Yes. It started as the 'Common Assembly' for the European Coal and Steel Community in 1952 but its powers were increased in 1970, 1975, by the 1992 Maastricht Treaty and the 1997 Amsterdam Treaty. No law can now be adopted without the formal agreement of the European Parliament.
Is it directly elected?
The first direct elections were held in 1979 and take place every 4 years.
What powers does it have over money?
Each December the European Parliament adopts the EU's budget for the following year. The budget does not come into force until it has been signed by the President of the European Parliament, giving the Union the financial resources it needs for the following year.
Can it sack the Commission?
Parliament approves the appointment of the Commission President and appoints the Commission by a vote of confidence. It can also censure it which would force the whole body to resign. It also approves the President and board of the European Central Bank.
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