The European Parliament will gain much from the ratification of Lisbon, and we’ll see the effects immediately. Firstly, the EP still has to approve Ashton’s appointment as High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Rest assured that the 736 MEPs will not go easy on her at her upcoming parliamentary hearing. After grilling, and subsequently approving or rejecting Ashton, the EP will do the same to the new Commission appointees, as per usual. But Lisbon extends the EPs role beyond striking fear in the hearts of all wannabe Commissioners. Once approved, the new FP chief must consult the EP regularly. The EP will also be consulted on the specific formation of the new External Action Service. Trade deals negotiated by the Commission on behalf of member states in the WTO will now need EP approval to be formalized. The list goes on…

Photo : Flickr, Xaf