In an interview given to Politico MP Bourgeois has set out his vision on the European Commission’s proposal on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the period 2021-2027.
MP Bourgeois calls for an ambitious, modern and realistic budget that reflects policy choices. His number one priority for the next MFF is research, development and innovation driven by excellence. He also stresses the need for investments in transport, energy and digitalization and for greater efforts in the field of defense and the safeguarding of international stability. A significant cut in cohesion policy spending is necessary according to MP Bourgeois, but investments in human capital via the European Social Fund and investments in cross-border cooperation via the European Fund for Regional Development have added value. The common agricultural policy should be modernized, including more member state implementing powers. MP Bourgeois calls for a fund in the EU budget to support countries around the North Sea with an expected significant negative impact from Brexit on their economies.
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