Joseph Daul, the French leader of the Christian Democrat group, called the results of the summit a step forward, yet short of what was needed as there has to be a single regulation for all banks in all Member States. "We all know what has to be done. We need be brave enough. We need to think about the next generations, not about new elections." See also EPP press release.
Enrique Guerrero, a Spanish member of the Social Democrat group, said a banking supervisory system under the ECB was an improvement, but that there was a lack of clarity on how the mechanism will come into force. He said austerity still seemed more important than creating new jobs, while there was not enough focus on social issues. Mr Guerrero said democratic participation and legitimacy was important, which is why the EP and national parliaments should be more involved. See also S&D press release.
Guy Verhofstadt, the Belgian leader of the Liberal Democrat group, said: "I think we have to be honest, the European Council for once has been saved by the European ministers of finance because without their agreement there would be not so much to report here today". Referring to Mr Barroso's speech on the summit results: "When all the options are open, it means that you have taken no conclusions".
Rebecca Harms, the German leader of the Green group, said: "The Parliament has been the stronger catalyst pushing for integrating Europe, but what is its further role?" She pointed out the need for the European minister of finances and mutualisation of debt.
Derk Jan Eppink, a Belgian member of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, commented: "This was a summit of angels", before adding that fools rush in where angels fear to tread. He pointed out problems with solidarity in EU, saying that there is nothing with solidarity if savings from one country are used in another.
Roger Helmer, a British MEP who is a member of UKIP, said decisions taken last week did not address the real problem, namely economic imbalances in the eurozone. According to him, the only way forward is to break up the eurozone and let countries in trouble such as Greece devaluate their currency.
Patrick Le Hyaric, the French vice-chair of the Confederal Group of the European United Left - Nordic Green Left , said that EU leaders were not doing enough to battle poverty. He said the mutualisation of debt is needed, as is better supervision of banks in London's City.
Press release
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