During the European elections (23-26 May 2019), in the European Parliament in Brussels, Esther DE LANGE, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group, makes a statement following the first results of the elections in the Member States.

Brussels

statement

DE LANGE, Esther (EPP, NL)

2019 European elections (T)

European Elections 2019 - Election night: First reaction by Esther DE LANGE, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group

Title: Election night: First reaction by Esther DE LANGE, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group

SOUNDBITE (English), Esther de LANGE (EPP, NL), Vice-Chair of the EPP Group , talking about participation rates which have increased in these European Elections. There should be no step back from lead candidate process. EPP has a good chances to be a biggest group in the European Parliament. EPP will have to work from the center to strenghten the majority. Need to deliver stability and solutions. Negotiotions in EPP will strat as from tomorrow.

Journalist from "Le Soir", asking a question at what extent the position of lead candidate Manfred Weber will be supported.

SOUNDBITE (English), Esther de LANGE (EPP, NL), Vice-Chair of the EPP Group , answering that lead candidate process has contributed to lively debate in Member States. Giving the transparency before voting is the right way to go. Negotions will now start in terms of content and in terms of candidate.

Journalist from the Austrian Daily, asking a question about Frans Timmermans right to become the EC President, and what is the answer from EPP Group from Manfred Weber to get this position.

SOUNDBITE (English), Esther de LANGE (EPP, NL), Vice-Chair of the EPP Group , talking about need of strong majority to be able to deliver. At this stage EPP has a good chances to be the biggest group and take the lead.

Journalist from Hungary asking about Fidesz performance in the European Elections and if EPP Group will support Weber's earlier position of Fidesz contribution to EPP votes.

SOUNDBITE (English), Esther de LANGE (EPP, NL), Vice-Chair of the EPP Group , EPP is working with the figures of the European Parliament showing that EPP has a relatively big majority. EPP will work on that basis.