By Elinor Blair and Bruno Waterfield - 5th July 2004
Europe’s 12 members of the single currency have shelved plans to create a “Mr Euro” until September.
The Dutch EU presidency has been asked to come up with details for the new job as political face of the euro - a post proposed in the European constitution.
Austria, Finland and Ireland are opposed to the move until the constitution is ratified in all 25 EU countries.
But the Hague is to press ahead arguing that the ‘eurogroup’ of single currency members is an informal body which can make its own rules.
Dutch Finance Minister Gerrit Zalm on Monday confirmed that talks for the creation of a, “stable presidency to improve the efficiency of working” were on the table.
The position, which is proposed by the new EU constitution, has a two and a half year term, would involve chairing the monthly eurogroup meetings and provide a political face for the 12 member body.
Zalm said however that he did not want the creation of a leader to be coupled with the fate of the new constitutional treaty.
“That may invite all kinds of criticism and we are free already to decide on our own working methods,” he said.
Jean-Claude Juncker, prime minister of Luxembourg looks likely to step into the post of “Mr Euro” who will represent the group at international level.
The Luxembourg prime minister, who also doubles up as his country’s finance minister, could combine the role of eurogroup president with his national duties.
Juncker reportedly turned down the role of Commission president despite backing from several member states.
At present, Zalm holds the rotating chairmanship of the eurogroup for the six months of the Dutch presidency. Juncker will then slip into place as Luxembourg takes over the presidency in January 2005.
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