Chloe gives her thumbs up to Prime Ministers statement on the EU Budget

Chloe Smith, MP for Norwich North, today gave the thumbs up to David Cameron's efforts at the EU Summit over the past couple of days.

Speaking in the House of Commons this afternoon the Prime Minister confirmed that the alliance he had built up has successfully rejected the European Parliament's proposal for a 6% budget increase from Member states. The European Council have agreed to a 2.9% increase- less than half of the original proposal.

Commenting on David Cameron's statement Chloe Smith said:

"I am pleased about the negotiations reached in the EU. Plenty of people in and around Norwich are concerned about high spending in the EU when British people are having to tighten their belts. As we reduce the deficit at home, it is very important that the European budget over time is reduced rather than increased. That is why I supported the Government's proposal to freeze the EU's budget spending in a vote on 13th October.

Negotiations for our contribution to the EU (the next "Financial Framework") for the years 2014-2020 will begin in early 2011. The UK Government expects the European Commission's proposal for that to take account of fiscal consolidation efforts across member states. At that negotiation, I know that the Government will strongly defend the UK's national interests, and ensure the budget is focused on those areas where the EU adds value. I will support them in doing so. To my mind this is in stark contrast to former Prime Minister Tony Blair who negotiated away our rebate."