Emma McClarkin MEP slams EU budget hike plans

East Midlands Conservative MEP Emma McClarkin has reacted angrily today at the news that the EU Commission is set to increase its 7 year budget by up to £14 billion.

The planned increase, which could be an inflation-busting 12.5%, would mean hard-pressed families in the UK having to pay more at a time when they – and the country – can least afford to.

Commenting on the news, Emma said:

“The EU needs a reality check, I think that this is outrageous at a time when so many families across the UK are having to cut back and make savings on their budgets.

“Asking for any increase at all would be out of touch, but to have the cheek to suggest such a massive increase shows that the European Commission is simply on a different planet to the rest of us.

“I have already said that the EU Culture budget should be cut, and it’s obvious to everyone – apart from the EU Commission it seems – that the whole EU budget shouldn’t be increased, but in fact should be cut as well.

“I want to make it clear that I will fiercely oppose any attempt to increase the budget, and I hope that other MEPs will do the same.”