13/03/2018 (Agence Europe) – On Tuesday 13 March, MEPs approved the own-initiative report by Michela Giuffrida (S&D, Italy) on the less developed regions by a large majority (488 votes for, 90 against with 114 abstentions). They are also now highlighting the importance of good economic governance as a means to achieve good global performances in the area of structural and investment funds. The original text mentioned “strong opposition” to the macro-economic conditions but this was significantly watered down in the compromise amendments (see EUROPE 11966). MEPs are also suggesting a redefinition of underdeveloped regions at a Nuts III level by way of the smallest unit of analysis taking into account new parameters (social and economic conditions) to more effectively guide European funds and effectively combine GDP and social and demographic criteria. No amendment was submitted during the plenary session. (PH)