TTIP — costs of conducting negotiations

26.11.2014

Question for written answer P-009737-14
to the Commission
Rule 130
Molly Scott Cato (Verts/ALE)

Since July 2013, the Commission has been conducting negotiations with the US Administration on an agreement for a Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). Seven negotiating rounds have so far taken place. Observers estimate that at least another seven rounds will be necessary to conclude the agreement.

Due to the broad agenda of the TTIP negotiating mandate, each round involves the participation of up to 150 negotiators from the EU side. Every second round takes place in the US, usually in Washington D.C. or surrounding locations.

1. How are the costs for conducting the TTIP negotiations budgeted for by the Commission? What estimate is used as the basis for the budget and how many negotiating rounds are anticipated?

2. What have been the costs of the TTIP negotiations for 2013 and 2014? Can the Commission supply a detailed breakdown of costs relating to travel, accommodation and subsistence costs for negotiators, as well as support services and infrastructure?

3. What provision is made in the budget for 2015 to support the possible continuation of the TTIP negotiations?