Rushing to aid Europeans and their economy, the EPP Group, the largest force in Parliament, calls for EU-wide solidarity and has approved measures to counter the impact of the coronavirus.

The EPP Group voted for 37 billion euros in aid and investment through the European Solidarity Fund and the Coronavirus Response Investment Initiative.

It also backed moves to temporarily ease rules on state aid, subsidies and budgets. It supported a relaxation of rules on airport landing slots, allowing airlines to avoid ‘’ghost flights’’ they used to keep their landing slots.

The EPP Group also supports further measures to produce medical equipment in Europe.

It supports boosting research to 120 billion euros and keeping  internal borders open to ensure the free flow of food and medicines.

It further supports measures to ensure a future for farmers and the self-employed, and internet access for distance learning and working.