Robert Sturdy accuses EU of “a classic fudge” over two new top Euro jobs
PRESS RELEASE
20 November 2009
Eastern Region MEP Robert Sturdy has accused the EU of “a classic fudge” over the appointment of its first president and foreign minister, the two top jobs in Europe.
The Belgian Prime Minister, Herman Van Rompuy, is to be the first president elected by European leaders under the Lisbon Treaty, while Baroness Ashton, former Trade Commissioner, is the newly appointed High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy.
Mr Sturdy worked closely with Baroness Ashton as Conservative spokesman on international trade, and in June 2007 ratified her appointed as Trade Commissioner.
He said:
“Both these appointments are a classic EU fudge. They have appointed two weak people so Merkel and Sarkozy are not threatened.
“Baroness Ashton is a very nice person and was a good trade minister, but whether she is up to this new role remains to be seen. I am rather concerned it is a question of appointing people who are not qualified.
“Belgium has a split government and can’t agree on which language they should speak. How on earth can they agree on Europe? I would have liked to have seen Chris Patten as our president.”
Ends
Notes to Editors:
1. Robert Sturdy MEP is available for interview on 0032 2284 7294 or through Press Officer Ellee Seymour on 01353 648564 or 07939 811961.
