Brussels, 09/07/2008 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 8 July in Strasbourg, the European Parliament adopted the report by Andrew Duff (ALDE, United Kingdom), which codifies rules of procedure. These rules have in fact been in application since 1994, for hearings, assessments and approval by the European Commission and EP (EUROPE 9670). MEPs are therefore amending the EP's internal regulation; amendments will formally enter into force at the beginning of the next parliament, following the June 2009 elections. Rules stipulate that Parliament must assess designated commissioners on the basis of their general ability, European commitment and their personal independence. MEPs also have to assess their knowledge of their potential portfolios and their ability to communicate. The EP will take the question of parity particularly into account. The text also explains that the EP may also speak on the distribution of portfolios by the president-elect. Each designated commissioner will be called on to make a presentation to the relevant committee in a single hearing. These auditions will of course be open to the public. (H.B./transl.rh)