Defence Minister Theo Francken has dismissed claims of a lack of democratic oversight concerning the military budget.
Over the weekend, Groen MP Staf Aerts argued that the minister had near carte blanche to spend €3.7 billion, as the budget documents indicate this sum is under a "provisional defence credit."
He believes this means only the budget minister’s approval is needed, bypassing parliamentary scrutiny.
However, Francken refuted this interpretation. He acknowledged that the Federal Ministry of Policy and Support (BOSA) was forced to translate the government’s Easter agreement into budgetary tables under tight deadlines. "But that doesn’t mean there will be no oversight," he said.
The Defence Minister insisted that all proposed expenditures will be discussed within the military procurement committee. "You will co-decide. We will ensure your right to scrutinise," he assured.
Similarly to Aerts, Nabil Boukili (PTB) also criticised the reported lack of democratic oversight, noting that the military procurement committee meetings are held behind closed doors.
