EU holds anti-sleaze talks
Brussels is set to unveil proposals in May strengthening transparency within the EU institutions, an initiative backed by EU chief José Manuel Barroso.
Administrative Affairs Commissioner Siim Kallas told reporters on Wednesday that the college of 25 commissioners would discuss his so-called "transparency initiative" on May 18.
"I have proposed a so-called transparency initiative- there will be an orientation debate on May 18, which I hope will be followed by concrete proposals," said Kallas.
According to the commissioner, the initiative covers three areas including the availability of end recipient data for EU funds, lobbying activities, and personal integrity issues.
The move follows controversy surrounding a €20,000 family holiday taken by Barroso in 2004 with friend and shipping magnate Spyros Latsis - also a recipient of EU funds.
A commission spokesman also said that discussions would include a wider debate on ethics in public life, the European Commission's code of conduct, and calls to establish an ethics committee.
The Parliament Magazine
Issue 296 | 19 Oct 2009People firstMorgan Tsvangirai on Zimbabwe’s crisis of confidence, and why every citizen must stand up and join the struggle for democracy
Regional Review
Issue 14 | October 2009Regions in partnershipPaweł Samecki on Open Days 2009 and why Europe’s regions must work together to tackle global challenges
Research Review
Issue 10 | September 09 Food for thoughtWhy tomorrow’s technology will change the way we consume, produce and think about our food.


