Last night, the S&Ds reached a political deal committing all member states to implementing and investing in the European Child Guarantee, during the negotiations with Council and Commission on the European Social Fund Plus. The European Child Guarantee is an initiative of the Socialists and Democrats to combat child poverty.

Brando Benifei, S&D MEP and negotiator for the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), said:

As one of the largest consumers of energy in the EU, building stock has a big impact on the EU’s climate goals. Buildings are responsible for 40% of energy consumption in the EU and contribute 36% of total emissions. This is why the S&D Group in the European Parliament has issued a position paper today, outlining affordable housing, green buildings and safe jobs as key demands for the renovation market.

The S&D Group in the European Parliament wants to see the EU use the weight of its single market with 450 million consumers to set global standards for responsible business conduct and ensure companies know the environmental, social and human rights impact of their operations.

Today MEPs in the legal affairs committee voted on the report on corporate due diligence and corporate accountability drafted by S&D MEP Lara Wolters.

Brussels, Belgium: A leak of the upcoming “Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan” signals the European Commission’s determination to create a “Tobacco-Free Generation” by turning a blind eye to science. In particular, according to the leaked proposal (attached below), the Commission fails to acknowledge vaping as an innovative way to reduce harm associated with smoking and as a method to help smokers quit.