Statements by the Italian Minister for the Interior

4.9.2018

Question for written answer E-004506-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Ernest Urtasun (Verts/ALE) , Ska Keller (Verts/ALE)

The Italian Minister for the Interior, Matteo Salvini, announced in June that there would be a census of Romani people in Italy and that those found to be in an irregular situation would be expelled, while at the same time expressing regret that it was not possible to expel the Italian Romani.

In the light of these statements, and given that the European Union is founded on values such as the respect for human dignity, freedom, equality, non-discrimination and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, among others, we ask the European Commission:

• 1.Does the Commission consider these statements to be compatible with Article 2 TEU and with the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union?
• 2.Does it consider that they breach Directive 2004/38/EC on freedom of movement and residence?
• 3.Would the Commission consider the possibility of launching formal infringement proceedings against Italy in the event that the measures announced by the Italian Minister for the Interior were to go ahead?