Blair must not appoint one of his cronies says Euro-MP

4.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 22nd Jul 2004

West Midlands Euro-MP Liz Lynne has warned that the nomination of an EU Commissioner by Tony Blair could be rejected by the European Parliament.

The Liberal Democrat MEP was responding to further speculation in today's press suggesting that Peter Mandelson will be the Prime Minister's nomination.

She said:

"Peter Mandelson's commitment to Europe is not in doubt but his nomination would be a gift to those who seek to undermine the European Institutions. This would create the impression that Britain's top job in Europe had been given to one of 'Tony's cronies'.

"Before he could take up office Mr Mandelson would be quizzed by MEPs and have to be approved by the new President-elect of the Commission, Jose Manual Barroso, who recently said he would listen to the Parliament and be prepared to sack commissioners. There is no doubt that Peter Mandelson would face a very rocky ride when he appeared before MEPs.

"Instead of appointing someone who has twice been forced to resign from public office, Tony could do something radical like nominating a woman. Although she would probably face tough questions from UKIP members on whether she cleans behind the fridge."

ENDS