Dutch MEPs have called for a temporary halt to plenary sessions of the European Parliament in Strasbourg due to high energy prices. They proposed holding meetings only in Brussels until the situation in the Middle East stabilizes.
According to the Hart van Nederland portal, the appeal is directed to the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola. The initiative has been supported by deputies from the Freedom Party, the Farmer-Citizen Movement, the Reformed Party, and the Animal Protection Party.
The authors of the letter noted that regular trips between Brussels and Strasbourg cost the European Union approximately €200 million per month. About 4,000 people are forced to constantly travel between the cities to participate in plenary sessions.
MEP Anja Hazekamp stated that in light of the EU's calls for energy savings, European institutions themselves should also reduce expenses. According to her, the parliament can operate in Brussels without monthly trips.
The appeal also notes that during the pandemic, the European Parliament temporarily refrained from holding sessions in Strasbourg.
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