European Parliament stirs up Bangemann controversy

NEWS The European Parliament (EP) has added to the controversy surrounding ex-EU Industry and Telecommunications Commissioner, Martin Bangemann, by calling for his pension and other privileges to be withdrawn. This follows his high-profile move to the board of Spanish telco, Telefonica, while still serving as an industry regulator. The EP voted overwhelmingly in favour of a resolution to withdraw Bangemann's pension rights on Thursday; it also criticised Bangemann for his actions and urged him to reconsider his decision. An EP statement said speakers at the debate yesterday "deeply deplored" the actions of the former commissioner. On 9 July, representatives of the Council of Ministers voted to refer the matter to the European Court of Justice; while this week there has been speculation concerning his post at Telefonica, which has reportedly postponed his appointment.