It might be added that registration for EP elections is highly problematic for expat EU citizens in a number of countries (and not only for UK-ians). Harmonisation is strongly required.

Within the context of this proposal there are a few topics on which harmonisation is vital, IMO:

• Allowed methods of collection
  
• Verification
  
• Deposits
  
• Service fees

Simultaneous verification with a notary present and only in designated facilities is not something we'd want to see here. There need to be somewhat harmonised methods of ex-post verification (and these should also be valid for the nomination of candidates/parties for the EP elections). It is also not desirable that countries ask for high deposits or service fees for the verification of signatures. Maximum amounts need to be fixed in the Regulation.