The Assembly,
Taking note of the constitution in Geneva on 28th, 29th and 30th January, 1951 of the Council of European Municipalities composed of representatives of the local municipalities and administrative areas (countries, districts, provinces, committees, etc.) and their national associations, for the purpose of winning the support of the public for the work of European unification,
Associating itself with the words addressed by M. P.-H. Spaak to the delegation of the Council of European Municipalities whom he received on 7th May, 1951 : " The action undertaken by the Council of European Municipalities is of profound importance. The mayors and their assistants are more frequently and intimately in touch with the public than the central Government and Members of Parliament. They are therefore capable of making a substantial contribution, particularly at a time when great efforts will be required if Europe is to be united. "
Considering the importance of local liberties, respect for which is the fundamental element of all democracy,
Considering that the cultural, social and economic problems of Europe directly affect the local communities,
Considering that the representatives of the local communities united aeross their respective boundaries by their common problems, are indispensable to the building of a united Europe with respect for diversity, and that their activities should be directed towards imbuing the public more deeply with the European idea and forging closer links between them,
Decides to include in the Agenda the following question :
Appointment of a Committee on Municipal and Regional Affairs. "