The afternoon session started with a keynote speech from Hans van Baalen MEP, President of the Liberal International, who spoke passionately about opposing the radical right across Europe.
And then it was time for the plenary session on the theme resolution. In a spectacularly efficient piece of chairing, Gordon Lishman managed to deal with all 107 amendments without resort to a single counted vote. As a scrutineer, I wasn't entirely unhappy about being kept idle. Alright, not entirely idle. I did make a brief intervention in support of amendment 107, noting the value of technology and social networks in supporting participation in society and in combating isolation, particularly in rural areas.
The theme resolution was, with that last debate concluded, approved with all of the working group's recommended amendments.
Guy Verhofstadt MEP, the leader of the ALDE Group in the European Parliament, was next up. He gave a speech which was, in turn, feisty, humorous and philosophical. He attacked those who want 'less' Europe, and also those individuals and groups who undermine European cohesion and harmony by their actions. In truth, my expectations had not been high but, assuming that it is posted on the ELDR website in due course, I would recommend a viewing.
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