Today, the Socialists and Democrats have voted against the request for the urgent procedure on the so-called “stop-the-clock” that delays the implementation of agreed legislation on due diligence and corporate reporting requirements. Unfortunately, after days of negotiations with the main pro-European political groups, an agreement and structured cooperation have not been established.

The Socialists and Democrats remain open to negotiations to simplify procedures and reporting for businesses,and to improve citizens’ lives. However, we have a clear red line: any cooperation with the far right is a firm 'no go' for the progressive family.

We also cannot accept simplification amounting to slashing standards. That is why this first Omnibus package is the test case for the future – on how we work together to get simplification right.

Gaby Bischoff, vice-president of the S&D Group for sustainable economy, social Europe and single market and S&D co-negotiator on the package, said:

“Our Group has worked relentlessly to facilitate an agreement with the pro-European forces, but after weeks of discussions, we have not reached an agreement. This is why the Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament have voted against this urgent procedure.

“Our message on the proposed changes in EU law is clear. We want to help our companies to comply with European legislation. But simplification cannot mean deregulation. Therefore, we will continue to negotiate before the vote on the “stop the clock” on Thursday.

“We were also very clear from the outset: we want a stable parliamentary majority of the pro-European groups – cooperation with the far right is a no-go for the Progressives in this House.”

Lara Wolters, S&D MEP and S&D co-negotiator on the package, said:

“The Omnibus package cannot be an excuse to dismantle EU laws that we meticulously designed and democratically adopted to improve people’s lives and strengthen their rights.

“We cannot justify voting in favour of a procedure normally intended for crises, such as Covid or the war of aggression against Ukraine. We are ready to continue negotiations but the European Parliament cannot make the same mistake as the Commission, legislating in a mad rush, to the detriment of quality and stability. This will require a common understanding on how to uphold our standards whilst delivering real simplification for companies.”