Brussels, 16/06/2004 (Agence Europe) - At their press conference on Wednesday, the EP's representatives to the IGC, Elmar Brok (CDU) and Klaus Hänsch (PES), were asked about the appointment of the President of the next European Commission. I would advise the Heads of State and Government to contact the political groups of the European Parliament before putting forward any candidates for this post, to avoid a situation of this candidate not having a majority in the Parliament, warned Mr Hänsch. Mr Brok pointed out that this nomination should take account of the results of the European elections, and consultation of the Parliament. Will the European People's Party appoint another candidate on Friday, now that it appears certain that Jean-Claude Juncker is not interested in the post? The EPP Summit will make its decision, was all Mr Brok would venture by way of a reply.
On the Presidency of the European Parliament, a journalist who asked whether there was any chance of a MEP from a new Member State aspiring to this post, Mr Brok replied that "of course, I have nothing against this", adding that it was up to the groups to decide. The Socialist Group will put forward a candidate for the Presidency of the Parliament, said Mr Hänsch.
Previously, when asked by the press, François Bayrou had replied that former Polish Foreign Minister Bronislaw Geremek as President would be "a fantastic symbol" for this first Parliament of the enlarged Europe.