The EPP group's attempt to block EU funding for environmental NGOs faced a setback as three conservative lawmakers voted against a motion to censure the European Commission. The motion, led by Dutch lawmaker Sander Smit and Italian member Pietro Fiocchi, was rejected by the environment committee. Smit criticized the Commission for not admitting to misuses of funds, while the European Environmental Bureau condemned the meeting as absurd. The EPP's claims about NGOs lobbying MEPs lack evidence, and critics argue that the EPP's actions aim to silence dissenting voices on environmental issues. Teljes cikk (Euronews.com)