Social summit becomes globalisation summit 

The UK Presidency originally had planned to hold a two-day special summit at Hampton Court on 27-28 October. The theme of this summit was meant to be the "sustainability of Europe's social model". After requests by several country delegations, the UK Presidency has decided to limit the summit to only one day (27 October). The topic of the meeting also seems to have shifted. 

EU leaders will now focus more on the effects of globalisation. In the words of the Presidency, EU leaders will discuss "how to maintain and strengthen social justice and competitiveness in the context of globalisation, Europe’s place in the world and the security of our citizens".

According to Commission officials, the social models issue will still be very much part of the debate. In this context, the Commission has prepared a document on the European social model that will be presented by Commission President Barroso on 20 October.

The Commission also intends to bring up a new proposal to break the deadlock in the financial perspective debate. President Barroso is expected to propose a seven billion euro fund to help Europe's industries deal with the consequences of globalisation. The UK Presidency refuses to discuss the long-term budget issue at the Hampton Court summit.