§ Lord Boyd-Carpenter asked Her Majesty's Government:
§ What is the length of the appointment of Mr. Jacques Delors with the European Commission, and when that period is due to expire.
§ Lord Cavendish of FurnessMy Lords, Mr. Delors was first appointed President of the Commission from 1st January 1985 for a term of two years. His appointment has subsequently been renewed and is due to expire on 31st December 1992.
§ Lord Boyd-CarpenterMy Lords, I am obliged to my noble friend for that Answer. Can he also indicate who makes the appointment, whether it is renewable indefinitely and whether it is for a fixed term on each occasion?
§ Lord Cavendish of FurnessYes, my Lords. There is no limit to the number of times Mr. Delors' appointment can be renewed, each time for a further two Years. The members of the Commission are appointed by common accord by the governments of member states. The Commission at present consists of 17 members. The President of the Commission is also appointed by common accord and is counted as one of the 17 members.