Policy Focus

UK Tories slammed over 'unfounded' attack on EU trade nominee

Eurosceptic MEPs have been accused of attempting to “undermine” today’s parliament hearing of Catherine Ashton, recently nominated to replace Peter Mandelson as EU trade commissioner.

In a statement, Socialist group leader Martin Schulz said, “Fairness is a core British value, but the British Eurosceptics are being completely unfair.

“They are playing games and attempting to undermine a serious procedure. Baroness Ashton will be tested rigorously in a three-hour public hearing by parliament’s policy experts.

“These Euro MPs should take their duties seriously and respect the procedure that will be followed.”

Schulz hit out after British Conservatives called for Baroness Ashton’s portfolio to be changed.

UKIP leader Nigel Farage was also accused of using “last-minute manoeuvres” to become a member of the specialist parliamentary committee that will conduct the hearing.

Schulz, describing criticism of Ashton as “mischievous and unfounded”, also said, “I met Baroness Ashton recently and I found her to be a highly competent candidate. I have every confidence that she will perform well in the hearing later today.”

Ashton, chosen by UK premier Gordon Brown to replace Peter Mandelson, will face questions from parliament for over three hours about her career, her views on the EU and plans for the trade portfolio.

The conference of presidents, or group leaders, will then meet to discuss the nomination with a vote in the full plenary on Wednesday.