‘The European Union undoubtedly needs simpler rules…However, simplification only works if, instead of making rules changeable quickly, it also makes them more predictable in the long term, so that a business can understand and comply with the requirements in less time, with less external assistance, and with greater legal certainty.’

‘The debate thus essentially revolves around two models: efficiency- and performance-based resource allocation, and an approach that prioritizes catching up and cohesion. The current proposal clearly reinforces the former, thereby opening new political fault lines among member states.’

‘The expansion of powers cannot take place without the explicit confirmation of member state consent—otherwise, integration will gradually become detached from national democratic legitimacy.’