The European Parliament's Civil Liberties Committee has approved objections for funding to include controlled migration centres established by member states.

The European Commission had tried last December to widen the scope of activities eligible for funding, with the aim of supporting national authorities struggling to cope with asylum, migration and integration, particularly for reception and accommodation for asylum-seekers or migrants in irregular situations.

However, MEPs complained that the concept of “controlled centres” was controversial and “of questionable legality” as it did not exist under Union law and had not been approved by the co-legislators.

They insisted that such a concept should not be funded “unless and until it is properly defined in an appropriate legislative instrument - adopted by the colegislators - detailing its legal basis, nature, purpose and objective”.

The first objection amended the regulation establishing the instrument for financial support for external borders and visa (part of the Internal Security Fund), while the second modified the regulation establishing the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund.

The committee backed both objections by 44 votes to eight.

To be adopted, objections to delegated acts need the backing of a majority of MEPs. The vote in plenary is scheduled for the March 25-28 sitting.