This week in the European Parliament: 2nd-8th Feb. 2015

MEPs return to Brussels on 2nd February for a mixed week of Committee meetings and Political Group meetings.

In the European Parliament MEPs are not organised by nationality, but by political affiliation.  They sit in political groups.

To do the preparatory work for Parliament’s sessions MEPs meet in specialised standing committees. The political make-up of committees reflects that of the Parliament. Their work includes drawing up, amending and adopting legislative proposals and own-initiative reports.

National parliamentarians visit European Parliament
As part of ongoing moves to strengthen cooperation between the EP and national legislatures, MPs from all over the EU meet MEPs to discuss economic, budgetary and social matters. (Tuesday and Wednesday)

Child protection
MEPs are to vote on a draft law to guarantee children suspected or accused of a crime in any EU country access to a lawyer at all stages of criminal proceedings, parental assistance, the right not to be questioned in public and medical examinations. (Thursday)

US Vice President visits European Parliament
US Vice President Joe Biden will have a bilateral with EP President Schulz and then take part in a meeting of the Conference of Presidents of the EP's political groups. (Friday)

Syria, EU budget, preparations for plenary and more.