21/05/2008 (Agence Europe) - At a meeting with several journalists, the French UMP MEP Alain Lamassoure deplored the clear cut in the preliminary draft budget (PDB) proposed by the Commission for 2009, which will only reach 0.9% of EU GNI (gross national income), far below the 1.24% available. This translates into clear cuts, notably in agriculture and regional and cohesion policy, which will see a 14% reduction of payment credits and funds for Community agencies, with the exception of those devoted to gender equality and health and safety in the workplace. In his view this PDB, which reduces the room for manoeuvre of the two branches of the budgetary authority, will also be difficult to manage for the French Presidency, which has significant ambitions. A delegation from the European Parliament committee on budgets will be in Paris on Thursday 22 May to discuss the matter with the French authorities. (O.J.)