Kuneva sets out EU goals

Bulgaria’s European commissioner designate Meglena Kuneva has pledged to improve communication with European consumers in her new role.

The Bulgarian minister was questioned by MEPs on Monday in a hearing to assess her suitability for the role of European commissioner for consumer protection.

“I want to have a sustained dialogue with consumers and the organisations which represent their interests,” she said.

She promised MEPs that if selected she would also strengthen communications with the European parliament and national governments.

“Consumer protection is central to the interests of every European citizen,” she added.

“It is one of those European policies which make the EU visible to citizens in their daily lives.  It is a policy which affects things which happen in real life.”

The European commission says consumer policy is about improving the quality of life of all EU citizens.

But in many areas health inqualities between EU member states are widening and Kuneva told MEPs she knew the role would not be an easy one.

“We may have different opinions,” she said.

“But I can promise you that I shall listen.  I shall make decisions on the basis of frank dialogue with you and with other interested parties.”

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