First Reading in Europe

First Reading in European Parliament and in the Council

The President of the European Parliament passes the proposal on to a Parliamentary coordination committee for further consideration. The outcome of the committee’s deliberations is discussed at a plenary session of Parliament, and is set out in an opinion which may accept or reject the proposal or propose amendments. Parliament then sends its position to the Council.

Context of First Reading in the European Union

The Council can now act as follows in the first reading.

_If it approves Parliament’s position, the act is adopted in the form of that position; this marks the end of the legislative process.

_ If the Council does not approve Parliament’s position, it adopts its position at first reading and communicates it to the European Parliament.

More about First Reading in the European Union

The Council informs the European Parliament fully of the reasons which led it to adopt its position. The Commission informs the European Parliament fully of its position.