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Hudghton (Verts/ALE).
– Mr President, Mr Barroso referred to our Committee hearing
process as an example of democracy in action, but that process, without
the accompanying power to approve or reject individuals, makes our
hearings more of a charade. After the hearings, I heard spokespeople for
certain political groups express deep disappointment at the performance of
certain individuals but go on to say that because he or she was a member
of their political family, they would support them anyway.
Mr Barroso acknowledged certain specific weaknesses – conflicts of
interest – and claimed to have attempted to deal with that. I think
conflicts of interest are as much about perception as actuality. Surely,
it is not too much to expect each individual to have done enough homework
to be able to demonstrate that they have mastered their brief.
Citizens' expectations and our sense of responsibility were referred to.
My sense of responsibility demands that I vote against the Commission
tomorrow.
(Applause) |
