Merkel and Hollande urge unity facing Europe's crises; Far-right says "No".
Europe was being "too slow to recognise the consequences of the crisis", President Hollande warned, saying that if a political solution wasn't found soon, the problems would worsen. He was applauded by some when urging member states not to "retreat into their own nationalist shells at a time of crisis".
Angela Merkel delivered her speech in characteristic low-key, no-frills style, but described the crisis as a "trial of historic measure" for the EU. From a chancellor not known for hyperbole, it underlined the scale of the challenge. "We need more than ever before the cohesion and courage that Europe has always shown in the past when it really mattered, and Germany and France are standing ready," she said.
There was some praise and muted cheers throughout the speeches. Opposition was small but the most vocal, and it came in stinging comments from nationalist MEPs, afforded a rare opportunity to question the leaders.
UKIP's Nigel Farage told the chamber he felt France and Germany's "once noble intentions" for a united Europe back in 1989 had "gone rotten". Marine Le Pen, far-right MEP and leader of France's National Front, accused the leaders of "absurdly trying to dominate", and stood up to deliver a memorably scathing line directed at the German leader: "I do not recognise you, Madam".
The UKIP leader gave an impassioned response, railing against both leaders
French far-right leader Marine Le Pen rounded on President Hollande, accusing him of selling out to a Europe run from Berlin
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