Spinmaster Mandelson risks EU credibility
03 October 2004
Euro-MPs have warned of a looming credibility crisis in EU development and trade policy after new trade commissioner Peter Mandelson told a parliamentary hearing he would bring a new development-friendly approach to the job - in direct contradiction to a new WTO deal to be discussed by trade ministers next week.
Green Party Euro-MP Caroline Lucas, group spokesperson on International Trade and a European Parliamentary delegate to the WTO ministerial meetings in Cancun,Doha and Seattle, said he demonstrated 'chameleon-like ease' in telling MEPs what he thought they wanted to hear - in stark contrast to EU policy papers leaked to national newspapers today.
Following the hearing, Dr Lucas, who represents South-East England, said: "We've heard many fine words today, but the real test will be on delivery. Almost every one of his pledges was dressed up as being very development-friendly. However, the Council of Ministers due to meet next week will discuss an assessment of a July WTO deal which will contradict almost all of his assurances by including no reference to social, environmental or developmental concerns.
"These leaked conclusions demonstrate that current EU trade policy is about putting the interests of EU exporters above the needs of poor people in developing countries. If Mandelson sticks to what he has said, he will be on a collision course with EU governments. In reality, I fear that - in spite of the super-smooth performance we've heard today - it will be business as usual."
