ALDE considers the seven conditions, corresponding to M5S manifesto for the European elections, as completely incompatible with our own pro-European political programme as well as inconsistent in so far as it seeks to exit Italy from the Eurozone whilst, at the same time, introducing Eurobonds. Furthermore, the expressed wish to abandon the fiscal compact and to water down the budgetary rules of the EU are inconsistent with the rhetoric of more solidarity between the member states.

It seems clear from these seven conditions that M5S does not believe in the European project and is in fact deeply anti-European. The multiple and lengthy talks of M5S with the EFD group of Nigel Farage would seem to confirm this. Such populist standpoints and strategies are miles away from the values shared by ALDE members.

We see the European Union as a common project of 28 member states that requires a responsible attitude.  The M5S list of seven conditions have no other objective than to serve a highly populist and unrealistic programme. We believe that it is impossible to reconcile them with a pro-European outlook and thus impossible for any responsible, pro-European group to take the M5S on board. To accept the party of Beppe Grillo in its ranks, would be to abandon the European project and the urgent reforms it desperately needs.