During a debate today in Strasbourg on what can be done to protect the European Parliament elections from foreign interference, S&D MEPs called on national governments to stop blocking legislative proposals that will help protect citizens’ privacy online. S&D Group leader Udo Bullmann, who was not available to speak in the debate, also made clear that if tech giants did not take real action to prevent the spread of misinformation and fake news on their sites, then the Group will push for legislation to ensure it.

Earlier today [Wednesday 14 November 2018], the European Parliament adopted its official negotiating stance on the European Commission’s proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 (MFF). Valeria Ronzitti, CEEP General Secretary, commented:

 

Today, the European Parliament backed a deal reached with the EU Council for a new Electronic Communications Code. The aim is to update the existing legislation to adapt to new technologies in a rapidly changing environment, so that both EU companies and citizens can benefit the most. It ensures the swift roll-out of 5G, and stronger consumer protection.

Ahead of the publication of the report of the special committee on financial crimes, tax evasion and tax avoidance next week, the Socialists and Democrats are calling for an urgent minimum effective taxation for multinationals and a ban on golden visa schemes in the EU. The draft report will present the findings of the committee and a number of recommendations to fight tax crimes, evasion and avoidance in the EU. The S&Ds have been leading the battle for fairer taxation and against corporate crime in Europe.