Midlands-North-West MEP Ciaran Mullooly has welcomed today's decision by the European Parliament to refer the EU-Mercosur trade agreement to the European Court.
He described the vote as a pivotal moment for legal certainty, democratic oversight, and the protection of European farmers.
In a closely contested vote in Strasbourg, MEPs backed the referral by 334 votes to 324, with 11 abstentions, triggering a judicial review that will significantly delay the agreement and place its legal foundations under formal scrutiny by the Court.
Reacting to the result, Mullooly said the Parliament had acted responsibly and in line with its duty as a co-legislator.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Mullooly said the decision marks a critical step in defending farmers, consumers and the integrity of EU law, and acknowledged the scale of public concern that influenced the outcome.
The Midlands-North-West MEP confirmed that he will continue to work closely with colleagues from a wide range of Member States who have committed to supporting the referral and ensuring that the legal review is fully respected.