§ Mr. RosindellTo ask the Prime Minister what discussions(a) his Office and (b) the Government have held with the European Commission on the appointment of the next head of the Commission Representation in the United Kingdom; when that post will become vacant; if 600W the role of the Commission in a single currency referendum has been discussed, with particular reference to influencing public opinion; and if he will make a statement. [58770]
§ The Prime MinisterThe Government has kept in close contact with the Commission as the recruitment procedure moves forward, while, naturally, respecting the Commission's independence in this process.
The Commission has Representations in all Member States. Their role is to represent the Commission to the media, report to the Commission on political, economic and social development in the host state, and disseminate information about the EU through recognised outlets.
The Government's position on the Single Currency remains a matter for the Government.
The position was advertised as the subject of an open competition on 17 July 2001. An exact date for appointment of the new incumbent will depend on his or her individual circumstances.
§ Mr. RosindellTo ask the Prime Minister when he was first informed of the(a) candidates and (b) short list for the replacement for the head of the Commission delegation to the UK. [58773]
§ The Prime MinisterThe Commission has kept the Government informed at all stages about the procedure for the selection of the next Head of the European Commission Representation to the UK.
The shortlist for the open competition for the position was published in the Official Journal of the European Communities on 21 March of this year.