I digress … thoughts on fish & the environment
Aaron I am going to do a series of posts on frequently asked questions, especially those related to some more obscure topics. Question: Does the same Council configuration that dealt with the legislative file need to finalise the agreement? Answer: No. Any Council configuration can sign off on the legislative agreement. For example, … Read more
There are tried and tested ways a policy entrepreneurial Commission official can get an important proposal adopted without the hierarchy being any of the wiser. Here are some of the most effective techniques I know: Give the proposal a long and technical title. When dealing with a chemical, use the technical name and stick … Read more
I was speaking with two smart young EU political consultants. It was interesting to hear what they thought they needed to know to be good at their job. Lobbyists don’t go through the mandatory vocational training lawyers do, nor the apprenticeship. That’s a shame. A friend went through the apprenticeship of a Magic Circle law … Read more
A Rush To Finnish I read with surprise a note that a senior Commission official realised some proposals had been tabled too quickly and with too little discussion with those impacted. This is a valuable lesson, although likely too late in the day. There is enormous pressure to get as many files adopted by both … Read more