20/12/2004 (Agence Europe) - Following the recommendations of its rapporteur, British Conservative Edward McMillan-Scott, the European Parliament (consulted on the issue), approved the draft regulation last Thursday concerning EU action to help encourage the consolidation of democracy and the rule of law, and respect for human rights and civil liberties in non-EU countries. The EP adopted a few amendments, for example where the Commission suggested 'in special circumstances' that individuals may be granted financial aid under the regulation, the EP wants this to include EU observer missions and 'amicus curiae' missions. Another amendment notes that the Commission should publish an annual report setting out the programmes for the year ahead for each region and individual sector, and keep the EP informed about the application of the programmes. McMillan-Scott has recently been highly critical of the choice of activities and countries targeted by the regulation in question.