1. Mobilisation of the Contingency Margin in 2017 

A8-0372/2017 

UKIP voted against this budgetary decision. The Contingency Margin is a last resort financial mechanism for the EU to react to unforeseen circumstances and amounts to 0.003% of the EUs GNI. This proposal was related to the spending of an extra €1.9 billion on EU security migration policy. That money has already been spent, but the decision here is whether it should be paid back in 2 years or 3 years by lowering future budget lines (this proposal wanted to extend it to 3 years). UKIP voted against as it would mean a higher budget for the EU to spend on administration in 2018, and also this proposal was part of the final agreement on the setting of the overall EU budget for 2018 worth €160.1 billion. 

2. Draft amending budget No 6/2017: Reduction of payment and commitment appropriations in line with updated forecasts of expenditure and update of revenue (own resources and fines) 

A8-0379/2017 

UKIP voted in favour of this budgetary decision. The proposal here is regarding a recalculation of estimated needs in the EU budget, an update of revenue from fines and the UK correction. While UKIP opposed the parliament’s comments that went with it, we voted in favour overall as the proposal would see €9.8 billion return to Member States. (Meaning a reduction in the amount each Member State has to contribute to the EU). 

 

3. Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide for the payment of advances in the general budget 2018 

A8-0371/2017 

UKIP abstained on this budgetary decision. The EU Solidarity Fund has a budget of €500 million a year and is used for disaster relief in Europe. This proposal is to take €50 million of that money and “frontload” it. This means that this amount of money can be more quickly mobilised in the event of a natural disaster. The €500 million is something that is already budgeted for and this proposal won’t mean more money has to be taken from taxpayers. UKIP has criticised the speed at which the EU reacts to disasters in the past, and as this money is for disaster relief we decided it would be wrong to oppose. 

 

4. Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to finance immediate budgetary measures to address the on-going challenges of migration, refugee inflows and security threats 

A8-0370/2017 

UKIP voted against this budgetary decision. The Flexibility Instrument is an EU financial tool which currently has €1.4 billion available to it and allows the EU spend money on individual areas which would often break normal budgetary ceilings. This proposal is to mobilise €837 million over the next 4 years for the EU to spend more money on migration and security. UKIP voted against as we oppose the unaccountable EU institutions spending taxpayers’ money, especially in a failing policy area. 

 

5. Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/003 GR/Attica retail 

A8-0367/2017 

UKIP voted against this budgetary decision. This proposal is to give €2.9 million (60% match funding) for 725 redundancies in Italy. The money will be spent on projects like professional counselling, start-ups, job search, training allowance, and a job creation subsidy. UKIP voted against as we oppose unaccountable EU institutions spending taxpayers’ money on unemployment measures in other countries. 

 

6. Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/005 FI/Retail 

A8-0366/2017 

UKIP voted against this budgetary decision. This proposal is to give €2.4 million (60% match funding) for 1,500 redundancies in Finland. The money will be spent on projects like coaching measures, training courses, start-up grants, pay subsidy, and allowances for travel and accommodation. UKIP voted against as we oppose unaccountable EU institutions spending taxpayers’ money on unemployment measures in other countries. 

 

7. 2018 budgetary procedure: joint text 

A8-0359/2017 

UKIP voted against this budgetary decision. This was a final agreement behind closed between the Council, EU Parliament and Commission on setting the EU budget. The final agreement for 2018 will set the EU budget at €160.1 billion. UKIP voted against, as we oppose unaccountable EU institutions spending huge amounts of taxpayers’ money. 

 

8. RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation between the European Union and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan setting out the terms and conditions for the participation of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) 

UKIP voted against this EU Recommendation. UKIP strongly supports the role of research and innovation in our society. However, the EU desperately needs budget cuts as a result of heavy deficiencies in several of its policy areas 

 

9. RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Agreement for scientific and technological cooperation between the European Union and the Arab Republic of Egypt setting out the terms and conditions for the participation of the Arab Republic of Egypt in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) 

UKIP voted against this EU Recommendation. UKIP strongly supports the role of research and innovation in our society. However, the EU desperately needs budget cuts as a result of heavy deficiencies in several of its policy areas 

 

10. RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the agreement for scientific and technological cooperation between the European Union and the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria setting out the terms and conditions for the participation of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria in 

UKIP voted against this EU Recommendation. UKIP strongly supports the role of research and innovation in our society. However, the EU desperately needs budget cuts as a result of heavy deficiencies in several of its policy areas 

 

11. Changes to the resources for economic, social and territorial cohesion and to the resources for the investment for growth and jobs goal and for the European territorial cooperation goal 

A8-0358/2017 

UKIP MEPs have voted against this first reading of this legislative report. The document wished to make a number of technical changes due to the release of recent statistical data. The Commission want to increase the amount of money spent on schemes such as the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI) which has been extebded from 2017 to 2020. In accordance with this they want an increase of EUR 1.2 billion for the YEI. This is just the EU wanting to waste more UK taxpayer money on schemes that produce poor results and for this reason this is why UKIP MEPs have voted against. 

 

12. Instrument contributing to stability and peace 

A8-0261/2017 

UKIP voted against this decision. We are concerned by the proposed further militarisation of the European Union and the lack of clarity in the legislation over what constitutes eligible military actors. 

 

13. Situation in Yemen 

RC8-0649/2017 

UKIP abstained on this non-legislative and non-binding resolution. We are concerned at the ongoing humanitarian crisis occurring because of internal instability and the power politics games played between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Arms exports are an intricate part of government policy, linked with both economic well—being and foreign policy interests. Whilst we are concerned at aspects of UK Government policy, in particular regarding Saudi Arabia, there is no justification for the transfer of these powers to the EU which, following Brexit, will be a foreign power. We are extremely concerned at the British government’s apparent willingness to do so, expressed in their position paper on foreign affairs following Brexit. 

 

14. Implementation of the European Disability Strategy 

A8-0339/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative and non-binding report. We as a party are supportive of a balanced approach that supports disabled people’s rights and protections without creating an undue burden on business. Domestically we have expressed strong opposition to several policy areas that have failed to do this. This report however consistently calls for either fresh legislative initiative from the Commission or extensive involvement of the Commission in the domestic affairs of member states. On principal this is something we cannot support. 

 

15. Report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 as regards the leverage ratio, the net stable funding ratio, requirements for own funds and eligible liabilities, counterparty credit risk, market risk, exposures to central counterparties, exposures to collective investment undertakings, large exposures, reporting and disclosure requirements and amending Regulation (EU) No 648/2012 

A8-0255/2017 

Further interference by the EU in the regulation of financial services, UKIP voted against this legislative report. 

 

16. Report on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on amending Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the ranking of unsecured debt instruments in insolvency hierarchy 

A8-0302/2017 

Further unnecessary EU harmonisation of rules on corporate insolvency in Member States, UKIP voted against this legislative report. 

 

17. Report on the proposal for a Council regulation amending Regulation (EU) No 904/2010 on administrative cooperation and combating fraud in the field of value added tax 

A8-0306/2017 

Further interference in the taxation of goods and services within Member States, in particular an enhanced role for the Commission in co-ordinating VAT matters, accordingly UKIP voted against. 

 

18. Report on the proposal for a Council directive amending Directive 2006/112/EC and Directive 2009/132/EC as regards certain value added tax obligations for supplies of services and distance sales of goods 

A8-307/2017 

Further measures to increase the collection of VAT - particularly on imported goods of low value - by making online platforms (rather than the seller or importer) responsible for the collection of VAT. UKIP voted against this legislative report. 

 

19. REPORT on the proposal for a Council decision authorising Croatia, the Netherlands, Portugal and Romania to accept, in the interest of the European Union, the accession of San Marino to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction 

A8-0360/2017 

It is principally a matter for the third country and the EU Member State concerned if they wish to adopt or recognise accession to the Hague Convention, given the subject matter it is not something we would seek to deny them, accordingly UKIP abstained on this non-legislative enactment. 

 

20. REPORT on the proposal for a Council decision authorising Luxembourg and Romania to accept, in the interest of the European Union, the accession of Georgia and South Africa to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction 

A8-0361/2017 

It is principally a matter for the third country and the EU Member State concerned if they wish to adopt or recognise accession to the Hague Convention, given the subject matter it is not something we would seek to deny them, accordingly UKIP abstained on this non-legislative enactment. 

 

21. REPORT on the proposal for a Council decision authorising Austria and Romania to accept, in the interest of the European Union, the accession of Panama, Uruguay, Colombia and El Salvador to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction 

A8-0362/2017 

It is principally a matter for the third country and the EU Member State concerned if they wish to adopt or recognise accession to the Hague Convention, given the subject matter it is not something we would seek to deny them, accordingly UKIP abstained on this non-legislative enactment. 

 

22. REPORT on the proposal for a Council decision authorising Romania to accept, in the interest of the European Union, the accession of Chile, Iceland and Bahamas to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction 

A8-0364/2017 

It is principally a matter for the third country and the EU Member State concerned if they wish to adopt or recognise accession to the Hague Convention, given the subject matter it is not something we would seek to deny them, accordingly UKIP abstained on this non-legislative enactment. 

1. Minimum income policies as a tool for fighting poverty 

A8-0292/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative and non-binding report. We support economic and tax arrangements that support low income workers as a principle but we cannot support this report. Many suggestions contained within would likely have a negative economic outcome and repeated calls for the use of EU taxpayer’s money and the creation of new EU level legislation is something we must vote against. 

 

2. REPORT on the proposal for a Council regulation amending the Council Regulation (EU) No 560/2014 of 6 May 2014 establishing the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking reference 

A8-0293/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this own initiative report. UKIP support exchange of information and cooperation among member states in the field of research. However, the financial implication of these EU projects (€7.35 billion) is unacceptable. 

 

3. Motion for a resolution on the draft Commission implementing decision renewing the authorisation for the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified maize 1507 (DAS-Ø15Ø7-1) pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council on genetically modified food and feed 

B8-0568/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have abstained on this motion for a resolution. UKIP support the highest possible level of protection of environment and human health. However, this control should be made by Member States and not by the unelected EU Commission. 

 

4. Motion for a resolution on the draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified oilseed rapes MON 88302 x Ms8 x Rf3 (MON-883Ø2-9 × ACSBNØØ5-8 × ACS-BNØØ3-6), MON 88302 x Ms8 (MON-883Ø2-9 × ACSBNØØ5-8) and MON 88302 x Rf3 (MON-883Ø2-9 × ACS-BNØØ3-6) pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council on genetically modified food and feed. 

B8-0569/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have abstained on this motion for a resolution. UKIP support the highest possible level of protection of environment and human health. However, this control should be made by Member States and not by the unelected EU Commission. 

 

5. Motion for a resolution on the draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified soybean 305423 x 40-3-2 (DP-3Ø5423-1 × MON-Ø4Ø32-6) pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council on genetically modified food and feed 

B8-0570/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have abstained on this motion for a resolution. UKIP support the highest possible level of protection of environment and human health. However, this control should be made by Member States and not by the unelected EU Commission. 

 

6. Motion for a resolution on the draft Commission implementing regulation renewing the approval of the active substance glyphosate in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market, and amending the Annex to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 540/2011 

B8-0567/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have abstained on this motion for a resolution. UKIP support the highest possible level of protection of environment and human health. However, this control should be made by Member States and not by the unelected EU Commission. 

 

7. The conclusion of the Euro-Mediterranean Aviation Agreement between the EU & the Kingdom of Morocco 

A8-0303/2017 

UKIP MEP's voted to abstain on this recommendation. This bilateral agreement guarantees its legal certainty. Furthermore this is the first to have been signed with a country outside the European continent and will prove as a source of precedence for the future. 

 

8. Legitimate measures to protect whistle-blowers acting in the public interest when disclosing the confidential information of companies & public bodies. 

A8-0295/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this own initiative report. It is important to ensure that where necessary the protection of whistle-blowers is maintained. However issues of this nature should remain purely within the remit of the Member State. The EU cannot look at an issue of this nature and propose a one size fits all policy. It is important to ensure that transparency is maintained especially with in the EU institutions, however this report was not solely about that. 

 

9. Laying down rules on the making available on the market of CE marked fertilising products and amending Regulations (EC) No 1069/2009 and (EC) No 1107/2009 

A8-0270/2017 

UKIP have voted against this legislative, first reading report as UKIP disagree with EU harmonisation and any attempts to strengthen the single market. UKIP voted in favour for any amendments which wished to increase phosphorus pentoxide levels to 80mg/kg in order to protect British industry whilst keeping cadmium levels at a safe level. UKIP also voted in favour of any amendments which postponed the implementation of such limits, again in order to protect British interests. 

 

10. Subjecting furanylfentanyl to control measures 

A8-0309/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this technically non-legislative report. The UK already has measures in place to control these drugs under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. The UK is not bound by this decision taken at EU level, however UKIP believe that controlling the drug in the EU could be beneficial in combatting the drug being available in the UK. 

 

11. Information exchange on, and an early warning system and risk assessment procedure for, new psychoactive substances 

A8-0286/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this legislative first reading report. UKIP fully support the fight against drugs and recognise that tackling the issue in the EU will likely have positive repercussions in combatting illegal drugs within the UK. UKIP do not, however, support the inclusion of Europol within this proposed system. Moreover, the establishment of this system will cost the taxpayer approximately EUR 670,000. UKIP believe taxpayers' money should be utilised more efficiently. 

 

12. Authorising France to apply a reduced rate of certain indirect taxes on ‘traditional’ rum produced in Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique and Réunion 

A8-0304/2017 

UKIP MEPs have voted against this consultation procedure. These special taxes pre-date the existence of the formation of the EU so France should not have to ask the Commission for permission to reduce the rate of these indirect taxes. The EU does not have the right to be intervening in national state affairs. This is just yet again another example of the EU intervening in state affairs that should not concern them. France should be able to regulate its own special tax arrangements with its own outermost regions without having to ask for permission first. In conclusion, this is why UKIP have voted against this document. 

 

13. Common Fisheries Policy: implementation of the landing obligation 

A8-0285/2017 

We opposed this legislative 1st reading vote as we oppose discards, the Common Fisheries Policy in toto, and the pretensions of the EU to determine what happens in what are and should be again UK waters 

 

1. Control of spending and monitoring of EU Youth Guarantee schemes cost-effectiveness 

A8-0296/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative, non-binding report. The EU Youth Guarantee scheme is a commitment by all Member States to ensure all young people under the age of 25 receive a good quality offer of employment, further education or apprenticeship within a 4 month period of becoming unemployed or leaving education. This report does call for greater transparency and oversight of taxpayers' money, however the main thrust is calling for more EU money to be spent, more interference in Member States employment policies and more EU initiatives. UKIP believes only our elected national government should decide employment policy, not unaccountable EU institutions. 

 

2. Draft amending budget No 5/2017: financing for the European Fund for Sustainable Development and increasing the Emergency Aid Reserve 

A8-0301/2017 

UKIP voted against this legislative budgetary decision. This vote, linked to the mobilisation to the Flexibility Mechanism vote, is in two parts and will increase the EU budget by €297.8 million overall. The first part is the European Fund for Sustainable Development which will get €275 million of this money for the creation of a new budget line which will be used to offer financial loans, grants and guarantees to foster private sector investment in countries outside Europe. The second part is to increase the Emergency Aid Reserve (EAR) by €22.8 million from this money. The EAR is a "last resort" financial instrument that is used to give aid to other countries. UKIP believes only our elected national government has the right to spend taxpayers' money, not unaccountable EU institutions and thus we oppose all EU budget increases in principle. 

 

3. Mobilisation of the Flexibility Instrument to provide the financing of the European Fund for Sustainable Development 

A8-0298/2017 

UKIP voted against this legislative budgetary decision. The Flexibility Instrument operates outside the normal budgetary ceilings, has a budget of €471 million a year and is used as a way to spend more money on specific budget lines in order to circumvent normal budgetary spending limits. This vote, linked to the Draft Amending Budget 5 vote, is to transfer €275 million from the Flexibility Mechanism to the newly created European Fund for Sustainable Development (EFSD) budget line. The EFSD will be used to offer financial loans, grants and guarantees to foster private sector investment in countries outside Europe. UKIP believes that only our elected national government has the right to spend taxpayers' money, not unaccountable EU institutions and thus we oppose all EU budget increases in principle. 

 

4. Reflection Paper on the future of EU finances 

B8-0565/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative, non-binding resolution. This resolution is the EU Parliament's reaction to the Commission's "reflection paper" setting out different future options for the financing of the EU budget. The resolution calls for increases in the long-term EU budget (MFF), encourages a dedicated Euro area budget, uses Brexit as an opportunity to end all rebates, and creates a new system of own resources where the EU collects more money itself, to take funding away from national contributions. The resolution goes on to criticise 4 of the 5 options in the Commission reflection paper as the EU rolling back its responsibilities and action, but goes on to give its full support to option 5 which would mean radically more EU power, spending and action. UKIP opposes a bigger budget and more power for the EU. 

 

14. Establishing an Entry/Exit System (EES) to register entry and exit data of third country nationals crossing the EU external borders 

A8-0057/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this legislative first reading report. In principal, UKIP largely support the measures proposed. With the significant increase in terrorist and criminal threat, it is only logical to have a system that electronically registers biometric information and records where and when third country nationals entered the EU. UKIP do, however, believe that the management of borders should not be a competence of the EU and should be the sole right of a sovereign state. Moreover, UKIP MEP’s also have concerns with regards to the centralisation of sensitive information which can be accessed by all Member States and EU agencies. For these two reasons, UKIP voted against this report. 

 

15. Amendment of the Schengen Borders Code as regards the Use of the Entry/Exit System 

A8-0059/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this legislative first reading report. This report is a technical supplement to enable the establishment of the Entry/Exit System (EES), which UKIP oppose. Therefore to keep consistent with our approach to the EES, UKIP MEP’s voted against enabling changes to the Schengen Borders Code which would facilitate the EES. 

 

16. Fundamental rights aspects in Roma integration in the EU: fighting anti-Gypsyism 

A8-0294/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this non-legislative report. UKIP fully oppose all forms of discrimination based on a person’s race, ethnicity, culture or religion and in principle support the broad aims of this report. UKIP do, however, oppose aspects of the report which clearly breach the principle of subsidiarity. UKIP believe that whilst more should be done to protect Roma people, Member States should be able to decide what practices are best to achieve this goal. 

 

17. Protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens or mutagens 

A8-0064/2017 

UKIP abstained on this legislation. We fully support appropriate measures to protect the health and welfare of workers. We believe that all legislation should be initiated by sovereign member states. This however does not create new legislation but rather updates existing legislation already in place according to the latest scientific consensus. 

 

5. Draft General Budget of the European Union for 2018 – all sections 

? 

UKIP voted in favour of all amendments to cut EU budget lines, and voted against all increases. This vote was to set the EU budget for 2018. UKIP tabled 66 amendments to the budget, which would have saved €3.6 billion. However, all but two were rejected. The two amendments that passed demanded the end of taxpayers' money being used to indirectly support bullfighting from EU agricultural payment funds. The initial Commission proposal for the 2018 EU budget was €160.6 billion (1.7% increase on 2017), it then went to the Council who amended it down to €158.9 billion (0.63% increase on 2017) and then the EU Parliament proposal was to increase it to €162.5 billion. The next stage of the process is for the EU Parliament and the Council to meet for a series of "conciliation" meetings to make a deal behind closed doors as they couldn't agree on the final budget ceilings. UKIP believes only our elected national government has the right to spend taxpayers' money, not unaccountable EU institutions. 

 

6. General budget of the European Union for 2018 – all sections 

A8-0299/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative, non-binding report. This resolution is the political view of the EU parliament which accompanies the 2018 EU budget lines vote. Overall the report called for a bigger EU budget, more EU initiatives and an increased Multiannual Financial Framework. UKIP believes only our elected national government has the right to spend taxpayers' money, not unaccountable EU institutions. 

 

7. Discharge 2015: EU general budget – European Council and Council 

A8-0291/2017 

UKIP voted in favour of the proposal to refuse discharge and in favour of the accompanying non-legislative resolution. The “discharge” is a yearly procedure where the EU Parliament looks through the budgets of all EU institutions and agencies to decide whether they have been used correctly. This proposal is to refuse to grant discharge to the EU Council. For many years there has been a recurring problem with the Council. Under the EU treaties it says the Parliament has the right to grant discharge to the Commission, but it doesn’t say anything about the Parliament granting discharge to any other EU institution or agency. Because of this the Council doesn’t cooperate with this transparency procedure. This decision and resolution criticises the Council for not being more open about their budgeting. UKIP always opposes the granting of discharge and the closure of accounts, and supports any calls for greater transparency, as we oppose all these EU institutions and agencies in principle. 

 

18. Combating Sexual harassment and abuse 

RC-B8-00576/2017 

UKIP voted to abstain on this non-legislative, motion for resolution. We utterly deplore any form of sexual harassment and abuse, particularly in the work place. Therefore, we welcome initiatives taken to tackle workplace harassment internally within the European Parliament and EU institutions. 

However, whilst we condemn any form of violence against women, this report called for more legislation, which would encroach on the policies of Member States. In this respect we believe it is at the discretion of National governments to decide on policy and legislation. 

 

1. Decision to enter into interinstitutional negotiations – ePrivacy regulation 

A8-0324/2017 

UKIP MEP’s voted against allowing this legislative report to be negotiated between the institutions behind closed doors. UKIP believe that legislation should receive full scrutiny from Parliament and that Members should be able to table amendments to the report 

 

1. Application of Directive 2004/35/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21st April 2014 on environmental liability with regard to the prevention & remedying of environmental damage (the ELD). 

A8-0297/2017. 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this own initiative report. This report amongst other things is calling for secondary legislation to accompany Member State primary legislation and the setting up of a European fund for the remedying of environmental damage. 

 

2. Monitoring the application of EU law 2015. 

A8-0265/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this non-binding own-initiative report. This report is critical of Member States application of refugee quotas and calls for further infringement action to be taken. It is concerning that this report calls for more infringement action to be taken against Member States when they fail to implement EU law either in a timely manner or at all. 

 

3. Australia Mandate 

A8-0311/2017 

UKIP voted against this. Whilst we usually support free trade talks, we note that the EU has initiated these talks at precisely the time the EU says the UK cannot discuss trade deals with anyone the EU is discussing a deal with. We regard this as a cynical ploy to stop Britain forging global trade deals, particularly with Commonwealth countries. 

 

4. New Zealand 

A8-0312/2017 

UKIP voted against this. Whilst we usually support free trade talks, we note that the EU has initiated these talks at precisely the time the EU says the UK cannot discuss trade deals with anyone the EU is discussing a deal with. We regard this as a cynical ploy to stop Britain forging global trade deals, particularly with Commonwealth countries. 

Written Explanation of votes 

03/10/17 

EU political relations with ASEAN 

A8-0243/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative and non-binding report. We do not support the development of any type of EU foreign policy. 

 

Report on addressing shrinking civil society space in developing countries 

A8-0283/2017 

UKIP MEPs have voted against this non-legislative and non-binding report, which wants to address the shrinking civil society space in developing countries. The document states that it “believes that a genuinely independent, pluralistic and vibrant civil society is pivotal to a country’s development and stability, to ensuring democracy and respect for human rights, and to building inclusive societies”. This sounds contradictory for an EU institution to say this, as they are more likely to try to control every aspect of a nation state. In addition to this, the report calls on the EU to “provide guidance to governments”. The governments of these nation states were elected by their own citizens to run the country how they see fit not by some foreign illegitimate political entity. Furthermore, the report wants to see the integration of all internal and external policies, including justice, home affairs, trade and security policies, in accordance with the principle of policy coherence for development. UKIP do not want to see the harmonisation of policies as it is up to the nation state to amend and implement policy and for these reasons UKIP MEPs voted against this own initiative report. 

 

Women’s economic empowerment in the private and public sectors in the EU 

A8-0271/2017 

UKIP Voted against this non-binding, non-legislative report. Although we fully support tackling discrimination and violence against women; as well as the empowerment of women; UKIP vehemently opposes all forms of gender quotas, gender mainstreaming and in particular the women on boards directive. We believe that such strategies are highly counterproductive and also discriminatory. All positions, including high-level positions ought to be determined by aptitude, and not gender. 

This report was extremely contradictory; on the one hand it pushed for gender quotas and women on boards, whilst at the same time called for anonymised euro-pass C.V’s, where C.V’s are unable to be determined by a person’s gender. 

Furthermore, not only was this report seeking to intervene in the employment policy of Member States; we also believe this report was intrusive in the private and domestic lives of families, with regard to the division of care. 

Overall, this was more interference on the part of the EU and undermines the sovereignty of Member states, via the need to enforce their gender mainstreaming agenda. 

 

Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down management, conservation and control measures applicable in the Convention Area of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) 

A8-0173/2017 

UKIP MEPs reject this legislative proposal because, however powerful the case to conserve tuna by international agreement, the European Union is neither a state nor a nation and should not therefore be trying to behave as one by signing agreements which are by definition for signature by nations: the word 'international' means between nations and this is a further example of EU action which may be judged as 'ultra vires'. 

 

Restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. 

A8-0205/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this legislative report on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. UKIP oppose the creation of new EU legislation in this field. UKIP believe it is necessary to increase legal certainty while preserving the environment and public health. However, UKIP insist that all decisions on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances should be taken at national level. 

 

State of play of negotiations with the United Kingdom 

B8-0538/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative, non-binding resolution. The resolution itself was a co-signed by a number of the political groups in the EU parliament. It included calls for a transition period to be under ECJ jurisdiction, that free movement continue, that Northern Ireland and the UK remain in the customs union, and that talks on a UK-EU trade deal be postponed. UKIP tabled 13 amendments calling for a range of things such as allowing the UK to start trade negotiations with third countries, that the ECJ must have no jurisdiction in the UK, that the Commission does not obstruct the UK bringing in border controls, that there should be no transition deal, and that Gibraltar should not be used as a bargaining chip. Unfortunately all these amendments were rejected.  UKIP also tabled its own resolution, however this was not voted on as the joint resolution was passed first. 

 

 

Written Explanation of votes 

04/10/17 

 

2017 UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn, Germany (COP23) 

B8-0534/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this Resolution on 2017 UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn. UKIP deny the Climate Change alarmism supported by green lobbies, often financed by the EU Commission. They are the cause of current damaging and counter-productive energy policy.  The European Commission continues imposing never-ending objectives for emissions reductions.  EU policies are forcing the investment of vast amount of money for activity that will have little or no effect on climate. 

 

Objection pursuant to Rule 106: draft Commission regulation amending Annex II to Regulation (EC)1107/2009 by setting out scientific criteria for the determination of endocrine disrupting properties 

B8-0542/2017 

UKIP MEPs have abstained on this motion for a resolution. UKIP support the highest possible level of protection of environment and human health. However, this control should be made by Member States and not by the unelected EU Commission. 

 

Objection pursuant to Rule 106: draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified soybean FG72 x A5547-127 

B8-0540/2017 

UKIP MEPs have abstained on this motion for a resolution. UKIP support the highest possible level of protection of human health. However, this control should be made by Member States and not by the unelected EU Commission. 

 

Objection pursuant to Rule 106: draft Commission implementing decision authorising the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified soybean DAS-44406-6 

B8-0541/2017 

UKIP MEPs have abstained on this motion for a resolution. UKIP support the highest possible level of protection of human health. However, this control should be made by Member States and not by the unelected EU Commission. 

 

Agreement establishing the EU-LAC International Foundation 

A8-0279/2017 

UKIP voted against this legislation. Whilst we agree the region is important and look forward to improved relations between an independent United Kingdom and the countries concerned we cannot support the creation of an international organisation by the European Union. We completely reject the development of an EU foreign policy and any budgetary implications in the future. 

 

The fight against cybercrime 

A8-0272/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this non-legislative report. UKIP MEP’s believe that co-operation is needed in the fight to combat cybercrime, but that that this should be concluded bilaterally between sovereign nations. UKIP also strongly oppose any attempt by the EU to establish further legal frameworks, particularly when this seeks to establish common definitions on terms associated with cybercrime. 

 

Schengen acquis provisions relating to the Visa Information System in Bulgaria and Romania 

A8-0286/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this technically non-legislative report. This report solely concerns the Schengen Area to which the UK is not part of. For this reason, it would not be appropriate for UK MEP’s to interfere on this matter. 

 

Automated data exchange with regard to vehicle registration data in the Czech Republic 

A8-0288/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this technically non-legislative report. UKIP support data exchanges, particularly when this the aim is to fight terrorism and serious crime, but believe that this should be concluded bilaterally between sovereign nations. 

 

Automated data exchange with regard to vehicle dactyloscopic data in Portugal 

A8-0289/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this technically non-legislative report. UKIP support data exchanges in principle, particularly when the aim is to fight terrorism and serious crime, but believe that this should be concluded bilaterally between sovereign nations. 

 

Automated data exchange with regard to vehicle dactyloscopic data in Greece 

A8-0287/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this technically non-legislative report. UKIP support data exchanges in principle, particularly when the aim is to fight terrorism and serious crime, but think that this should be concluded bilaterally between sovereign nations. 

 

Proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2009/45/EC on safety rules and standards for passenger ships. 

A8-0167/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this first reading.  It is important to understand that safety rules on passenger ships are important.  In no way would UKIP MEP's agree to the EU managing the safety standards of Member States, but at the same time UKIP MEP's would never consider it acceptable to allow the safety of passengers and their rights to be put in danger. 

 

Proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Directive 98/41/EC on the registration of persons sailing on board passenger ships operating to or from ports of the Member States of the Community and amending Directive 2010/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on reporting formalities for ships arriving in and/or departing from ports of the Member States. 

A8-0168/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this first reading.  It is always important wherever necessary to tidy up the burdensome red tape that is produced by the EU.  The amendment to this Directive updates, simplifies and clarifies the existing requirements for the counting and registration of passengers and crew on board passenger ships, whilst enhancing safety levels.  However it does not go far enough and one proposal put forward by one of our MEP's is to have CCTV on decking to ensure safety of passengers in the event of any accidents. 

 

Proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on a system of inspections for the safe operation of ro-ro ferry and high-speed passenger craft in regular service and amending Directive 2009/16/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on port State control and repealing Council Directive 1999/35/EC. 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this first reading.  This is a review of the existing legislation which aims to simplify & rationalise it.  There is a proposal to eliminate the legal uncertainty and redundancy caused by the coexistence of two directives on the inspection of vessels.  It is important to ensure that any legislation that is to do with the safety of ro-ro ferries is clear to all parties involved and UKIP MEP's will ensure that no unnecessary red tape will confuse matters and cause any problems. 

 

Ending child marriages 

B8-0535/2017 

UKIP voted to abstain on this non-binding motion for resolution. We utterly deplore such an abominable crime, and support tackling violence against women. However, we believe that this ought to be conducted at Member State level, and believe it is not for the EU to state where Member States spend their development aid, or to interfere with the financial decisions of international nations. The UK is already committed to the cause of ending forced marriage, due considering it a criminal act under UK law. 

Written Explanation of votes 

12/09/17 

 

1. EU-Iceland Geographical Indicators 

Borelli Report (1 of 2) 

A8-0256/2017 

UKIP voted to abstain on this legislative report. UKIP notes this deal between Iceland and the EU to allow EU products with geographical indicators to enjoy that status on the Icelandic market. We note that every two years the EU and Iceland meet to discuss whether current arrangements are satisfactory. This is a deal which both parties agreed to, and which has minimal impact on the UK. We have no desire to block this deal, so abstained. 

 

2. EU-Iceland Agriculture 

Borelli Report (2 of 2) 

A8-0254/2017 

UKIP voted to abstain on this legislative report. UKIP notes this deal between Iceland and the EU to commit to lowering tariffs between the two parties in agricultural produce. We note that every two years the EU and Iceland meet to discuss whether current arrangements are satisfactory. Iceland's membership of the EEA means that agriculture and fisheries are not covered by usual EU free movement of goods. We do not wish to block this deal, so abstained. 

 

3. Global Value Chains 

Arena Report 

A8-0269/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative, non-binding report, as we feel the EU has no right to use trade as a political weapon with which to bully other countries. The EU has a long history of attempting to politicise trade and attaching clauses and demands in trade deals which are purely political in nature. We look forward to an independent Britain forging trade deals that do not include political and economic bullying. 

 

4. Report on Mediation Directive 

A8-0238/2017 

UKIP have voted against this non-legislative, own initiative report. UKIP are against the EU interfering in the judicial process of Member States. The EU is looking to spend more money on training and promotion of mediation, mediation is a very good idea and at present the UK has a very successful mediation process which is extremely beneficial and also alleviates cost, it would not be beneficial to support a report that is looking to increase costs. 

 

5. Report on the repeal of regulations for road and inland waterways 

A8-0228/2017 

UKIP have voted for this legislative report. UKIP support the repeal of unnecessary, obsolete and out of date regulations. It is about time that the EU institutions started to get rid of the burdensome red tape that is no longer relevant. 

 

6. EU accession to the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (A8-0266/2017) 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this non-legislative report. UKIP consider violence against women to be a truly abhorrent act and we fully support measures that aim to protect women from violence. With this in mind, UKIP fully support the UK in its ongoing attempts to fully ratify the Istanbul Convention. UKIP do not, however, support EU accession to this convention as we do not believe it has the competency to do so. Moreover, we also believe that this report asks the EU to go significantly further than what is outlined in the convention. We believe that it should be the sole decision of national governments to propose measures that exceed the recommendations outlined in this convention. 

 

7. Report on the functioning of franchising in the retail sector 

A8-0199/2017 

UKIP have voted against this non-legislative, own initiative report. UKIP believe that Member States should be allowed to decide their own laws on franchising in the retail sector and that the European Commission should not be called upon to act in this area. 

 

8. Academic further distance education as part of the European lifelong learning strategy 

A8-0252/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative non-binding report. UKIP oppose EU interference in the education systems of Member States. Whilst we support lifelong learning and accessibility to all in education, particularly in the digital age; we believe this is solely an issue of national sovereignty. This report dictates how Member States and institutions should run and invest in their own education systems, which goes against the EU’s own treaties, as stipulated in Article 165 of the TFEU. 

 

1. REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulations (EU) No 1316/2013 and (EU) No 283/2014 as regards the promotion of Internet connectivity in local communities 

A8-0181/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this legislative report on WIFI4EU. UKIP understand and support the importance of improved internet connectivity in our society. However, UKIP are against the financial implication of this project. UKIP are against this attempt of EU harmonisation and we believe that efforts to improve internet access and speed should be made at national level. 

 

2. REPORT on a Space Strategy for Europe 

A8-0250/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this non- legislative report on Space Strategy. UKIP are against a further increase in the EU budget for this purpose. UKIP remember the very recent failure of the EU Galileo satellite that caused a considerable waste of European taxpayers’ money. 

 

3. REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning measures to safeguard the security of gas supply and repealing Regulation (EU) No 994/2010 

A8-0310/2016 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this legislative report on the safeguard of gas supply. UKIP believe that the EU should repeal its entire energy legislation. UKIP believe in secure and affordable energy. UKIP want a stable regulatory system that fosters investment. UKIP want reliable and affordable generating technologies, like coal, gas, nuclear and hydro and UKIP want an end to subsidies that punish consumers and taxpayers, and distort markets. 

 

4. Whale hunting in Norway Motions for a resolution 

B8-0499/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have abstained on this motion for resolution. UKIP believe the practice of mass whale hunting in Norway is brutal and inhumane. However, UKIP believe that this issue should be solved internationally and not by the EU. 

 

Written Explanation of votes 

13/09/17 

1. Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Italy 

A8-0280/2017 

UKIP abstained on this legislative decision. This proposal is to give over €1 billion to Italy to help in reconstruction efforts for earthquakes that occurred in 2016 and 2017. While of course UKIP opposes the EU spending any UK taxpayers' money, the amount given would be budget-neutral. It does not mean the UK has to give more money to the EU, nor would it mean the UK would get money back if this money wasn't given to Italy. The money will come from funds that had already been budgeted for. To be clear, this would not mean any additional funding is necessary from taxpayers. Additionally as this was for legitimate humanitarian reasons, UKIP felt it would be more responsible to abstain. 

 

2. Draft amending budget No 4/2017 accompanying the proposal to mobilise the European Union Solidarity Fund to provide assistance to Italy 

A8-0281/2017 

UKIP abstained on this legislative amending budget. This proposal is directly linked to the "mobilisation" vote to give over €1 billion to Italy for reconstruction efforts due to recent earthquakes. Whilst the other vote is concerned with the principle of giving the €1 billion to Italy, this vote is to make sure that there is technically enough money in the correct budget-line to pay it. As it happens the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) does not have enough money in its budget-line to pay outright. The proposal here is to transfer some money from under used budget-lines, in to the EUSF. This would be budget-neutral and will not require additional funding from taxpayers. 

 

3. Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: application EGF/2017/002 FI/MICROSOFT 2 

A8-0278/2017 

UKIP voted against this legislative decision. The proposal is to give over €3.5 million to Finnish workers who have lost their jobs due to Microsoft downscaling its operation in the country. The money will go to areas such as retraining, job seeking, allowances for travel, start-up grants etc. UKIP voted against as we don't believe UK taxpayers' money should be used for poor economic decisions in other countries. This is nothing more than EU dole money. 

 

4. Draft amending budget No 3/2017: budgetary resources of the Youth Employment Initiative; establishing plans of ACER and SESAR2 

A8-0282/2017 

UKIP voted against this legislative amending budget. The proposal has two elements to it. The first (and far more important) is that the budget ceiling for the EU "Youth Employment Initiative" will be increased by an extra €500 million. The second part is minor adjustments to staff posts in the EU decentralised agencies "ACER" and "SESAR2", however no extra staff will be awarded to them. UKIP voted against because we oppose unaccountable EU institutions spending taxpayers' money. Only our elected and accountable national governments should decide employment policies. 

 

5. Motion for a resolution on the Commission delegated regulation of 2 June 2017 supplementing Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the specific compositional and information requirements for total diet replacement for weight control 

B8-0497/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted in favor of this motion for resolution, which opposes the commission position. UKIP believe that the EU Commission’s draft delegated act, if adopted, would result in a lower standard of products being available to consumers. 

 

6. Motion for a resolution on the draft Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No .../... amending Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2016/6 as regards feed and food subjected to special conditions governing the import of feed and food originating in or consigned from Japan following the accident at the Fukushima nuclear power station 

B8-0502/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have abstained on this motion for a resolution. UKIP support the highest possible level of protection of human health. However, this control should be made by Member States and not by the unelected EU Commission. 

 

7. REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions and removals from land use, land use change and forestry into the 2030 climate and energy framework and amending Regulation No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and the Council on a mechanism for monitoring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions and other information relevant to climate change 

A8-0262/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this legislative report on land use, land use change and forestry. UKIP reject the EU Commission proposal. UKIP deny manmade climate change and believe that CO2 is not a pollutant. New legislation in this field would only bring to further bureaucracy and economic damages to this sector. UKIP notes, that forestry is not an EU competence. 

 

 

8. REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2003/87/EC to continue current limitations of scope for aviation activities and to prepare to implement a global market-based measure from 2021. 

A8-0258/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this legislative report on aviation. UKIP believe that the EU Emission Trading System is a huge failure for the EU. It forces industries to comply with absurd standards dictated by the EU Commission’s obsession to limit global temperature below 2 degrees Celsius. The ETS has destroyed our Industry causing a considerable carbon leakage phenomenon. UKIP believe the only solution to this legislative chaos is to reject the EU energy policy together with the entire ETS system. Once out of the EU, the UK should be free from any EU legislation, including the emission trading scheme in the aviation sector. 

 

9. Recommendation on the draft Council Decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the Union, of the Multilateral Agreement between the European Community and its Member States, the Republic of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Bulgaria, the Republic of Croatia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, the Republic of Iceland, the Republic of Montenegro, the Kingdom of Norway, Romania, the Republic of Serbia and the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo on the establishment of a European Common Aviation Area (ECAA) 

A8-0260/2017 

UKIP MEP's voted to abstain on this recommendation. Amongst other things this recommendation was amending the Multilateral Agreement to take into account the accession of several countries who are now members of the EU. 

 

10. EU political relations with India 

A8-0242/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative and non-binding report. We do not support the development of any type of EU foreign policy. We look forward to reinvigorating the UK’s ties with our important Commonwealth partners following the UK’s exit from the European Union, on a bilateral basis, when we will able to, once again, negotiate our own trade agreements. 

 

11. Arms export: implementation of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP 

A8-0264/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative and non-binding report. Arms exports are an intricate part of government policy, linked with both economic wellbeing and foreign policy interests. Whilst we are concerned with aspects of UK government policy, in particular regarding Saudi Arabia, there is no justification for the transfer of these powers to the EU which, following Brexit, will be a foreign power. 

 

12. EU political relations with Latin America 

A8-0268/2017 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative and non-binding report. We do not support the development of any type of EU foreign policy. 

 

13. Corruption and human rights in third countries 

A8-0246/2017 

UKIP abstained on this non-legislative and non-binding report. This report raises many important breaches of human rights and corruption of which we are concerned. However we do not support the development of EU foreign policy or see any added value in EU action that cannot already be achieved by state or international level assistance. 

 

DAN PADDOCK: 

14. Subjecting acryloylfentanyl to control measures 

A8-0284/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this technically non-legislative report. The UK already considers this substance to be worthy of being listed as a Class A drug. Furthermore, the UK is not bound by this decision taken at EU level. UKIP believe that controlling the drug in the EU could be beneficial in combatting the drug being available in the UK. 

 

15. Uniform format for residence permits for third country nationals 

A8-0065/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this legislative report. UKIP fully support measures that seek to tackle illegal migrants being able to easily forge residence permits. We cannot, however, support EU legislation and EU harmonisation practices. For these reasons, UKIP voted to abstain on this report. 

Written Explanation of votes 

01/06/17 

1. Uniform format for visas 

A8-0028/2016 

UKIP MEP’s have voted to abstain on this legislative report. UKIP MEP’s firmly support measures which are designed to combat illegal migration. We do, however, not support further EU harmonisation practices and EU legitimacy in issuing visas. 

 

2. Multiannual Framework for the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights for 2018-2022 

A8-0177/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this technically legislative report. UKIP fully support safeguarding fundamental rights but reject the need for an EU body, financed by the taxpayer, to conduct work that many national governments and NGO’s already do. 

 

3. Multiannual Framework for the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights for 2018-2022 

B8-0384/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted this non-legislative motion for resolution. UKIP principally oppose the EU’s Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA), which is financed by the taxpayer, to conduct work that many national governments and NGO’s already do. This resolution seeks to expand the scope of this framework, so UKIP MEP’s voted against. 

 

4. Combatting anti-Semitism 

B8-0383/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have been permitted a free vote on this non-legislative resolution. UKIP firmly reject all forms of racism, including anti-Semitism. As some amendments concerned sensitive issues, such as the definition of ‘anti-Semitism’ and the right to criticise Israel, UKIP MEP’s were permitted to vote based on their own conscience. 

 

5. The new European Consensus on Development -our world, our dignity, our future 

B8-0387/2017 

UKIP MEPs have voted against the new Consensus on Development in this motion for a resolution. UKIP does not support the European Union trying to further harmonise development policy. The EU wants to see one development policy to override all of the 28 other development policies from the national governments. With this one line of vision the EU will have the authority to instruct nation states where to spend their taxpayer money as well as wanting to push for the further expansion of the influence of the Union though their ‘common vision, values and principles’. UKIP does not want the EU to have more influence and see the further harmonisation of policies and so for these reasons UKIP has voted against. 

 

6. Resilience as a strategic priority of the external action for the EU 

B8-0381/2017 

UKIP MEPs have voted against this motion for a resolution on resilience as a strategic priority of the external action for the EU. This document would like to see the 2013-2020 Action Plan for resilience fully implemented and it would like to promote “greater coherence between policies.” This would mean that the EU would like to see further integration of its policies in member states and harmonisation throughout the Union. In addition, the document has asked for “sufficient resources to be devoted to the promotion of resilience.” This means that the EU wants to put more money into failing and unsuccessful projects to promote resilience. UKIP does not support the EU wasting more money and for the further harmonisation of policies and for these reasons UKIP has voted against. 

 

7. Internet connectivity for growth, competitiveness and cohesion: European gigabit society and 5G 

A8-0184/2017 

Today UKIP voted against this own-initiative report. We are against new EU legislation and we oppose further harmonisation in this field. 

 

8. Digitising European industry 

A8-0183/2017 

Today UKIP voted against this own-initiative report. We are against new EU legislation and we oppose further harmonisation in this field. 

 

9. Recommendations to the Commission on the protection of vulnerable adults 

A8-0152/2017 

UKIP have abstained on this non-legislative report, because the needs of vulnerable adults must be ensured within the Member States. It is important that every Member State ratifies The Hague Convention, it really should not be up to the EU to put pressure on the Member States to force the ratification. Ratification of The Hague Convention should be done in a timely manner and when the Member States are in a position to do so. 

 

10. High-Level UN Conference to support the implementation of SDG 14 (UN Ocean Conference) 

B8-0382/2017 

We opposed this non-legislative resolution because, like the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) itself, it would block development without delivering the conservation necessary to avoid the 'tragedy of the commons'. 

Written Explanation of votes 

27/04/17 

 

1. Agreement on Operational and Strategic Cooperation between Denmark and Europol 

A8-0164/2017 

UKIP MEP's have voted to abstain on this technically non-legislative report. UKIP fully respects the will of the Danish people who chose to have less involvement with Europol. UKIP do, however, oppose calls in this report to exhaust all legal possibilities to invite Denmark to be full members of Europol. This without doubt seeks to undermine the democratic will of the Danish people. 

 

2. The EU flagship initiative on the garment sector 

A8-0080/2017 

UKIP MEPs have voted to abstain in this non-legislative report. UKIP does not support the Commission developing a monitoring system which encompasses data collection. The EU has no right to be intervening in national state affairs. However, the report does talk about greater transparency and traceability of garments and it is calling on the Commission to make gender equality, women empowerment and children’s rights. Although the report calls on the Commission a lot it is centred around human rights and more specific children’s rights and for this reason UKIP will abstain. 

 

3. The establishment of the Structural Reform Support Programme for the period 2017 to 2020 

A8-0374/2016 

UKIP MEPs have voted against this legislative report. UKIP does not support the Structural Reform Support Programme that has been put in place to strengthen the capacity of Member States to design and implement growth-enhancing administrative and structural reforms. The EU has no right to be intervening in national state affairs and in addition this vanity project costs the taxpayer EUR 142 million at current prices for the programme. In addition, the EU wants to see the further harmonisation of programmes and policies throughout the Union. For these reasons, UKIP voted against this report. 

 

4. Management of fishing fleets in the outermost regions 

A8-0138/2017 

We opposed this non-legislative vote as it would lead to more subsidy which we see as the misuse of taxpayers’ money 

 

5. State of play of farmland concentration in the EU: how to facilitate the access to land for farmers 

A8-0119/2017 

We opposed this non-legislative vote as this reports is neither sound economic analysis nor good use of taxpayers’ money. 

 

6. Regulation on financial reporting and auditing 2014-2020 

A8-0291/2016 

This legislative vote on regulation will increase the 2014-2020 budget for the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group to 57m euros, accordingly UKIP voted against. 

 

7. Regulation on consumer involvement in policy making in financial services 

A8-0008/2017 

This legislative vote on regulation will increase funding by 6m euros for the period 2017-2020, accordingly UKIP voted against. 

 

8. Annual Report on the European Investment Bank 

A8-0121/2017 

This non-legislative non -binding report, suggests that the EIB should consider demanding more capital from shareholders.(ie more money from the UK and other Member States) and calls on the Commission and Member States to increase the budget for external lending, accordingly UKIP voted against. 

 

9. Report on hybrid mismatches with third countries 

A8-0134/2017 

The proposal is part of a package linked with harmonisation of taxes and the Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base, accordingly UKIP voted against on this technically non-legislative report. 

 

10. Minamata Convention on Mercury 

A8-0067/2017 

UKIP is concerned of the adverse effects of mercury on human and animal health – in humans, mercury affects mostly the central nervous system and the kidneys. Acute inhalation, dermal exposure and chronic exposure are proved to be extremely damaging to human health. This is why UKIP abstained on this Recommendation. 

 

11. Implementation of the Mining Waste Directive 

A8-0071/2017 

UKIP believe that it is important to protect human health and the environment from the improper management of waste facilities that could give rise to major accidents . We believe that measures, procedures and guidance to prevent and reduce adverse effects on the environment and human health resulting from the management of extractive waste should be established by national Parliaments. This is why UKIP abstained on this none-legislative report. 

 

12. Situation in Venezuela 

RC8-0270/2017 

UKIP abstained on this none-legislative and non-binding resolution. Whilst we are concerned at the ongoing political instability and civil unrest in the country, we cannot endorse EU action, increased involvement of the VP/HR or the sending of a Parliamentary delegation. 

 

13. European Year of Cultural Heritage 

A8-0340/2016 

UKIP voted against this legislative report, we oppose the use of taxpayers money for another unnecessary scheme to promote the EU. 

 

14. EU trade mark 

A8-0054/2017 

UKIP voted against this legislative report, as it is wishing to create harmonisation with regards to trade marks. Furthermore the original text calls for an office to be responsible for the harmonisation which will have full legal, administrative and financial autonomy 

1. Logistics in the EU and multimodal transport in the new TEN-T corridors 

A8-0384/2016 

UKIP voted against this non legislative report, because this report is calling for Member States to be punished should there be a delay in the implementation of EU law. Furthermore the report is calling for disciplinary action to be taken against Member States that impede the free movement of goods by deliberately preventing freight flows. 

 

2. Tackling the challenges of the EU Customs Code (UCC) implementation 

B8-0024/2017 

UKIP MEP’s have voted against this non-legislative resolution. In principle, UKIP oppose the EU’s customs union and reject calls for the Commission to instigate implementing acts. 

 

3. European Pillar of Social Rights 

A8-0391/2016 

UKIP voted against this non-binding, non-legislative report. It included calls for an EU social security card, the creation of an arbitrary EU minimum income scheme and praised the free movement of people across Europe. Unelected and unaccountable EU institutions have no right to interfere with national law in this way. Only our elected and accountable national government should take these decisions. 

 

4. Human rights reports 

RC8-0072/2017 

RC8-0074/2017 

RC8-0075/2017 

UKIP abstained on this non-legislative and non-binding resolution. Whilst we share concerns at the breaches of human rights that this report addresses we cannot support EU action on these issues. 

5. Agreement Continuing the International Science and Technology Center 

A8-0363/2016 

UKIP voted against. We do not support the EU's membership of such organisations. Furthermore we do not support EU financial expenditure. 

 

6. Objection pursuant to Rule 105(3): Commission Delegated regulation amending Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1675 supplementing Directive (EU) 2015/849 by identifying high-risk third countries with strategic deficiencies 

B8 0001/2017 

This Motion for a Resolution seeks to reject the currently proposed delegated act, but calls on the Commission to propose another. Voting for or against would generate EU delegated legislation, hence the abstention. 

 

7. Kosovo Partnership 

A8-0361/2016 

We voted against this legislative report, as it is a step towards the eventual EU membership of Kosovo. Kosovo's poverty, corruption and treatment of its Serb minority make it unsuitable for membership. Whilst we are about to leave the EU, we are in no rush to add corrupt and impoverished countries to the EU to take the place of a vibrant and dynamic independent Britain. We also note the fact that Kosovo is not universally recognised as an independent state by important sections of the international community. 

 

8. Textiles from third countries 

A8-0311/2016 

This report concerns the trade in textiles from countries such as Belarus and North Korea. These countries are minimal players in EU trade, and this report was merely a technical tidying up exercise which we saw no need to oppose, so we abstained on this legislative report. 

 

 

RC8-1394/2015 

We abstained on this important, highly complex issue because such verbose EU legal resolutions – whether approved or rejected – are simply not the best way to deliver progress and prosperity on the issue. 

 

Completing EMU (DODDS) 

B8-1347/2015 

Economic and Monetary Union is a fundamentally bad idea because it places distinctive and different national economies in one straightjacket of economic policies. Completing economic and monetary union (as the title of this Motion for Resolution wishes) would therefore merely preserve the problems to be fixed by the inevitable break-up of the currency zone – better to make that break up occur at a time of the zone's own choosing rather than have it forced upon them by events. Accordingly UKIP voted against. 

 

Setting up a Committee of Inquiry on emission measurements in the automotive sector, its powers, numerical strength and term of office 

B8-1424/2015 

UKIP voted in favour of setting up an EU parliament committee of enquiry on this issue. The committee intends to investigate the Commission's role in the scandal. UKIP fully support anything which will hold accountable the un-elected EU Commission. However the committee also intends to investigate Member States and national authorities. While we don't support the legitimacy of EU bodies investigating Member States, it may shine a light on wrong doing by our own government. UKIP will oppose any recommendations made by the committee which call for more EU powers, legislation or harmonisation. 

 

A8-0340/2015 

UKIP voted against this legislative vote on the EU-Vietnam agreement on partnership and cooperation. We are opposed in principle to EU institutions signing international agreements on behalf of the UK. Only elected and accountable national governments should negotiate and conclude international agreements not the unelected and unaccountable EU Commission. 

 

A8-0339/2015 

UKIP voted against this legislative vote on the EU-Vietnam agreement on partnership and cooperation. We are opposed in principle to EU institutions signing international agreements on behalf of the UK. Only elected and accountable national governments should negotiate and conclude international agreements not the unelected and unaccountable EU Commission. 

 

A8-0342/2015 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative and non-binding report on the EU-Vietnam agreement on partnership and cooperation. We are opposed in principle to EU institutions signing international agreements on behalf of the UK. Only elected and accountable national governments should negotiate and conclude international agreements not the unelected and unaccountable EU Commission. The EU has no right to interfere in the domestic affairs of non-EU countries. 

 

A8-0344/2015 

UKIP abstained on this non-legislative and non-binding report. UKIP of course shares many of the concerns highlighted in the report regarding the violation of human rights, discrimination against LGBTI people, sexual violence as a weapon of war and many other cruel and inhumane acts. However we cannot support calls for more EU action on the international stage. These issues should be handled between national governments and at the appropriate and legitimate international level, namely the United Nations. The un-elected and unaccountable EU institutions have no right to interfere in the foreign policy of Member States or the domestic affairs of non-EU countries. 

 

RC8-1362/2015 

UKIP abstained on this non-legislative and non-binding resolution. UKIP of course is glad that the violence came to an end and that the victims and innocents caught up in the war should be remembered. However the report goes on to support Bosnia and Herzegovina in applying for membership of the European Union which is something UKIP cannot support. 

 

A8-0338/2015 

UKIP voted against this non-legislative and non-binding report. We oppose in principle to unaccountable EU institutions being able to decide who we export to and the terms of such export. The only people that should decide UK trade policy is our elected and accountable national government. 

 

RC-B8-1348/2015 

UKIP abstained on this non-legislative and non-binding resolution. While of course we shares deep concern over the unstable political situation and killings that have taken place, we cannot support calls for more EU interference. These issues should be handled between national governments and at the appropriate and legitimate international level, namely the United Nations. The un-elected and unaccountable EU institutions have no right to interfere in the foreign policy of Member States or the domestic affairs of non-EU countries. 

 

B8-1346/2015 

UKIP abstained on this non-legislative and non-binding resolution. While of course UKIP shares great concern over the exploration for oil in this national park with the possible serious ramifications for protected animals and the environment, and we would urge the DRC to comply with international law on protected sites, we cannot support the EU being involved. This issue should be handled by negotiations between national governments and at the appropriate and legitimate international level, namely the United Nations. The un-elected and unaccountable EU institutions have no right to interfere in the foreign policy of Member States or the domestic affairs of non-EU countries.