Socialist MEPs rally behind EU commission trade nominee

Senior Socialist MEP have rallied to back Catherine Asthon’s nomination as EU trade commission ahead of her parliamentary hearing on Monday.

Ashton’s appointment by UK premier Gordon Brown has provoked surprise in some quarters, with critics saying her perceived lack of experience in trade issues has raised a question about her suitabality for the post.

Nigel Farage, leader of the UK Independence Party, said he will endeavour to veto what he calls her 'controversial' nomination, claiming Ashton is “totally unsuitable” for the job, particularly at a time of key trade negotiations involving the EU.

However, German MEP Martin Schulz, who leads the Socialist group in parliament, the assembly's second largest grouping, described her as an “excellent” candidate for the high-profile job, recently vacated by Peter Mandelson, the new UK business secretary.

Speaking on Wednesday, Schulz told this website that he had “no doubts” about her suitability or experience.

His comments were partly echoed by Gary Titley, leader of the UK delegation of Socialist deputies, who agreed she was an 'excellent' choice.

He said, however, that she was “not a shoe-in” and confirmation of her nomination by MEPs should not be taken for granted.

Ashton appears before the international trade committee in Strasbourg on Monday evening before the conference of presidents, or group leaders, meet later in the week to decide whether or not to endorse her appointment. A final decision will be taken by the plenary, probably in November.

“She has got to show members of the committee on Monday that she is on top of her portfolio and fully understands the role,” said Titley.

“The trade post she is taking over is a particularly difficult one.”

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