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Lords debate the EU and China

9 June 2010

Image of UK Parliament portcullis

Members of the House of Lords debated the European Union Committee report ‘Stars and Dragons: The EU and China’ in a debate on Wednesday 9 June, in the House of Lords.

Lord Teverson, Chairman of the EU Sub Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Development Policy that conducted the inquiry, introduced the debate.

The report, published in March, called for the EU to raise its game substantially, noting an underlying need for an effective relationship between the EU and China that is based on trust and mutual respect. The report stated that the new Lisbon Treaty arrangements alone would not suffice to enhance EU solidarity in this area.

The Committee argued that current trade imbalances between China and the West are not sustainable and raised concerns about the influence of Chinese investment in Africa.

During the debate areas including human rights, climate change and the economy were discussed, by members of the House including:

  • Lord Faulkner of Worcester
  • Lord Alton of Liverpool
  • Lord Clement-Jones
  • Lord Cotter Lord Crickhowell
  • Lord Howe of Aberavon
  • Lord Selkirk of Douglas

Lord Wallace of Saltaire responded on behalf of the Government.

Further information

Members of the public and journalists are able to attend debates.