Text tabled : A7-0311/2012

  Giovanni La Via (PPE), in writing. − (IT) As I stated during the debate, today’s vote needed to reflect unity and firmness. I am happy with the result of the vote because an overwhelming majority of Members supported our proposal, aimed at eliminating the considerable cuts proposed by the Council. It is unthinkable that at a time of crisis the Member States can propose cuts to investment and funding for research, development and employment. It would also go against the statements by the Heads of State and Government in June, and this inconsistency on the part of the Council should be underlined. I would like to make a short statement on payments. Bills must be paid. This is a simple rule, as well as a legal obligation, and I hope that during the conciliation process the Council will accept an agreement that takes account, first and foremost, of the demands of European citizens, who are calling on us to invest in growth, the competitiveness of enterprises and above all in the creation of employment.