Lázár said that Hungary is committed to abiding by all European rules. He added, however, that changes are necessary because the current law does not allow expulsion.

Referring to press reports on another topic, Lázár said the government was planning “firm changes” at Hungary’s EU representation in Brussels.

He said that the goal was to ensure that Hungary’s representation is as good as that of other countries in the region.

Asked about rumours that Péter Györkös, the incumbent ambassador, could be withdrawn, he said Györkös is an “excellent diplomat” whose services the Hungarian state “could use in the future”.

Meawhile, Lázár said that the government would set up a pool of 70 billion forints (EUR 22.5m), tapping EU funds, to renew local roads.

Construction of a planned four-lane highway linking Szolnok in central Hungary with the M0 motorway would start next year, and the project would cost a total 110 billion forints (EUR 35.4m).

In September, the government will introduce new foreclosure procedures to help debtors struggling with their mortgage instalments, he said, adding that the new system “will not be unfair” and that the government will cooperate with local councils to ensure “every assistance” to clients.

On another subject, Lazar said ministries have until June 30 to prepare an action plan in the areas of health, reducing bureaucracy, improving competitiveness and changing tax procedures.

“We need to learn the lessons of the past five years in government and come up with a new programme to increase Hungary’s competitiveness,” Lázár said.

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MTI photo: Illyés Tibor