Six EU states call for major cuts to bloc’s next budget

Six European Union member states have urged the bloc to cut its next seven-year budget by several hundred billion euros, according to a letter seen by Dutch broadcaster NOS on Tuesday.

The leaders of the Netherlands, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Austria and Finland opposed the European Commission’s proposal, saying it would increase the EU budget by 60%.

They described the proposed increase as “unrealistic” both politically and economically, arguing that it was incompatible with the austerity measures required in several member states.

Leaders call for spending overhaul

The six leaders called for a comprehensive reform of EU spending. They said investment should prioritise security, defence, economic competitiveness, innovation and efforts to combat illegal migration within the framework of a strong and independent Europe.

In the letter addressed to Ireland, which currently holds the EU presidency, the leaders said the new budget proposal should set an amount that could be financed realistically without further borrowing.