EU commission asks for €11bn to plug budget gap

The European Commission said on 27 March 2013 an extra €11.2bn is needed to cover unpaid bills from the EU budget.

European Commissioner Lewandowski explained that €9bn is needed to replenish cohesion funds for the EU's poorest regions.

His request provoked an angry response from the UK government, which is part of a group of member states demanding cuts to EU spending.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Parliament ready to strike deal on EU budget http://www.europeansources.info/record/parliament-ready-to-strike-deal-on-eu-budget/

EurActiv, 28.03.13: UK to fight additional cash for EU budget http://www.euractiv.com/uk-europe/uk-vows-fight-eu-amending-budget-news-518779

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