Lobbying

  Before a legislative proposal goes to the vote, the outcome is known to those who need to know. In the EP most of the work is done in technical meetings, and the Rapporteur/Shadows sign off any pre-decided agreements. Only a few disputed issues go to vote in committee, and the plenary endorses agreements. As … Read more

There are lots of ways I’ve seen success measure measured in lobbying. This is my list. Your idea is mainstream. It is a non-issue. Your issue and solution are adopted without a second thought. Your members/supporters/client is happy. If the people paying for the work are happy, that’s important. The law/policy you worked for is … Read more

Most people use a lobbyist late in the day. People will often step in too late. A week before the law is published in the Official Journal, or when the proposal is 3/4 through the legislative machinery of the EP and Council. A good lobbyist will give you a suitably grim and realistic prognosis.  I’ve … Read more

I think it is common courtesy for MEPs/Member States to acknowledge the source of the inspiration behind amendments to Commission proposals.   It is a practice that MEPs I worked for were happy to practice. During a presentation to the ENVI Committee, it was simply good form to thank interests from industry, technical experts and … Read more