Brussels April Plenary: Russia, eco-labelling, protection of Arctic

Two days of debates in Brussels opened with a minute's silence for the estimated 300 migrants who drowned last week whilst trying to land on Europe's shores. MEPs discussed EU relations with Russia, demanding that respect for human rights and security of gas supply be put at the top of the agenda. They also agreed to expand the eco-labelling scheme and backed more investment in energy-efficient housing.

Members also supported steps to safeguard the Arctic from exploitation by oil and gas companies.
 
The rights of EU citizens to move around the EU was on the agenda as was a resolution calling for 23 August - the day of the Nazi-Soviet non-aggression pact of 1939, which divided Europe - to be made a day of remembrance for the victims of totalitarianism.