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East Midlands Liberal DemocratsBill Newton Dunn and the Liberal Democrats - working for you across the East Midlands |
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MEP seeks advice on crucial vote
October 22, 2004 4:52 PM
Lib Dem MEP for the East Midlands, Bill Newton Dunn, is seeking advice from his constituents on whether or not to vote down the new European Commission in a crucial vote in Strasbourg on Wednesday (27 October).
Euro-MPs believe that a number of the candidate Commissioners are simply not up to their jobs.
Outrage has centred on the candidate for the post of the Commissioner for Justice and Home Affairs - the Italian, Rocco Buttiglione.
Mr Buttiglione has come under fire for his remarks on homosexuality and the role of women. He told MEPs that homosexuality is 'a sin' and defended asylum camps in Africa. He added to the furore by saying that single mothers "are not very good" people.
MEPs have demanded that the President of the Commission, Mr José Manuel Barroso, change Mr Buttiglione's portfolio. His strong views are not seen as compatible with a job requiring him to take legislative initiatives promoting EU citizens' rights. A compromise yesterday only offered to remove the responsibility for anti discrimination from Mr Buttiglione's portfolio, setting up a separate task force on the issue.
Appealing to the people of the East Midlands, Bill Newton Dunn said:
"This is a vital vote that is likely to be very close. The European Parliament does not have the power to censure individual Commissioners - only the Commission as a whole.
"I am seeking the advice of my constituents - Should Mr Buttiglione should be removed from his portfolio? Should he be a Commissioner at all? Should I vote against the entire Commission or is it too much to sink the entire ship?
"I have my instinct but on such a crucial decision, where every vote will count, I would welcome the views of my constituents. The outcome will have huge implications for the next five years."
Contact Bill Newton Dunn by calling or texting 07939 250 473 or emailing:
If approved, the Commission would hold office for 5 years from 1 November 2004.
Contact Bill Newton Dunn MEP: 07939 250473 or Tiffany Venning: +32 485 952 113
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