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Eurostat: Responsible Commissioner must resign if allegations are substantiated
August 29, 2003 12:00 AM
The European Liberal Democrat Group has called for the European Commissioner responsible for Eurostat to resign if a European Commission investigation into the Eurostat affair substantiates allegations of malpractice.
Speaking after the Liberal Group reached its position Sarah Ludford MEP said:
"As soon as the European Commission's two internal inquiries have concluded in October, President Prodi should present their findings to the European Parliament. If the preliminary findings of serious and widespread wrongdoing in Eurostat are confirmed, the European Commissioner responsible for Eurostat should accept political responsibility and resign."
"The Eurostat affair raises serious issues of misuse of public funds, financial accountability and possible fraud. This is particularly sensitive given the role of Eurostat as the guardian of the Union's statistics. The European Parliament has a responsibility to hold the Commission to account and ensure the proper use of taxpayers' money."
"The European Liberal Democrat Group has long advocated the individual accountability of Commissioners. This principle is reflected in the commitment which each Commissioner gave to President Prodi prior to taking office. The acceptance of individual political responsibility would draw a line under the matter and strengthen the credibility of the European Commission and its commitment to reform."
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