Third-countries nationals: removal by air, assistance in cases of transit. Initiative Germany

The committee adopted the second report by Timothy KIRKHOPE (EPP-ED, UK), the first report having been referred back to committee by the plenary sitting of 10 April 2003 (see summary dated 10/04/2003 - DEBATES IN PLENARY). It reinstated the amendments adopted in committee on 25 March 2003 which sought to: ensure the safe transit of travel documents; clarify the ability of escorts to take measures for self-defence and in an emergency; and provide appropriate information to the airline concerned. The committee also adopted a new amendment stipulating that, in accordance with the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms and the Charter of Fundamental Rights, Member States shall not provide assistance in connection with collective expulsions and expulsions to countries where fundamental political, social or cultural rights are not respected.�