MEPs support the use of a common consolidated corporate tax base (CCCTB). Moreover, for them the system should be compulsory. The CCCTB would only apply to European cooperative societies, which are by nature cross-border. After five years, it would apply to all companies except small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which could opt in if they so wish.

The European Parliament approved a resolution that pushes for a compulsory common consolidated corporate tax base. The Commission had proposed a voluntary scheme. This vote confirms the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee decision taken in March 2012. This scheme would only apply to European cooperative societies, which are by nature cross-border. After five years, it would apply to all companies except small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which could opt in if they so wish. With regard the SMEs, the Commission should work to reduce administrative burdens so as to enable those with cross-border activities to benefit from adhering to the CCCTB system.

According to the MEPs, the CCCTB would give companies a single set of rules for calculating their taxable profits, rather than having to comply with differing accounting rules in each Member State in which they work.

In addition, the European Parliament also underlined that the new rules are for computing taxable income; CCCTB does not impose any common tax rates. Besides, MEPs highlight that the system ensures that economic and social aspects are more important than purely fiscal reasons when companies choose their locations.