Robin Cook, UK foreign minister, came to Strasbourg to launch the six-months UK presidency of the Council. The UK would act to promote a successful launch to the Euro, despite being outsiders. In fact, that way they could act as honest brokers, he claimed. They would also begin negotiations with the states wishing to join the EU. Jobs crime and the environment were the other priorities.
The euro - how to ease investment, reduce tax distortions, create a stable exchange rate with the dollar and create consumer confidence - was the subjects of reports and resolutions. After a lively debate, Parliament decided to refer back to the committee a report on decriminalising the use of drugs.