Mr. John David Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) if the 470W Government representative at the recent EEC Council of Ministers meeting supported the appointment of Mr. Richard Burke as a Vice-President of the European Economic Community Commission;
(2) (a) how many working days Mr. Richard Burke can serve as a Vice-President of the EEC Commission, (b) what is his increase in annual salary and (c) what effect this appointment has on his pension rights.
§ Mr. RifkindThe EC merger treaty (1967) provides that, in the event of retirement or death, vice-presidents of the Commission shall be replaced for the remainder of their term of office by common accord of the Governments of the member states. In accordance with these provisions, the Presidency of the Council nominated Mr. Burke, and his appointment went through unopposed.
The effect of Mr. Burke's appointment on his remuneration and pension rights can only be calculated applying complex rules to his individual case. When the necessary information has been obtained, I shall write to the right hon. Member.