11/12/2020 (Agence Europe) – The European Parliament and the EU Council failed on Thursday 10 December to reach an agreement on the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), as it was unable to reach agreement on the issue of thematic concentration. Parliament wants a fixed rate for expenditure under the Child Guarantee, while the Council of the EU prefers more flexibility. Parliament wants 27% of ESF+ funds to be dedicated to social inclusion, compared to 25% sought by the EU Council. Parliament proposes adding 3% for the most destitute people on top of the 27% for social inclusion, while the EU Council wants 2% integrated into the 25% it proposes for the thematic concentration on social inclusion. Noting their disagreement, the co-legislators have decided to continue negotiations in 2021 under the Portuguese Presidency of the EU Council. (PH)