Potocnik Endorsed by European Parliament Committee

Brussels, 13 October

Janez Potocnik, the incoming European commissioner for science and research, was unanimously given a nod of approval by the European Parliament committee on industry, research and energy, according to the committee's evaluation.

Members of the committee believe that the candidate has the necessary personal and professional skills as well as the dynamism and political determination for the position of the commissioner for science and research, says the evaluation, addressed to the President of the European Parliament Josep Borrell.
The report says that the committee saw Potocnik as "honest, sensitive to the human factor, with excellent communication skills, knowledgeable and well prepared, but also willing to listen and discuss possible points of disagreement".
As a scientist (economist) and someone who worked as a researcher himself, the candidate was sensitive to the economic and social aspects of research and the need to improve the conditions of researchers, the evaluation says.
"Although he was new to the field of research, his balanced approach and open-mindedness left no doubt that he would be in complete control of his area of competence," says the document, signed by the committee chair, British MEP Giles Bryan Chichester.
There is, however, also some criticism voiced in the document: "One large political group perceived a relative weakness in his visions for the future but expressed confidence that this would be overcome as he worked himself into his new tasks". The document does not specify which political group is in question.
The committee members "highly appreciated" Potocnik's appreciation of the role of small and middle-sized companies in research, his clear statements in favour of basic science, simplification of procedures and stimulation of the research potential.
"He saw research as an essential pillar of the Lisbon strategy, advocating a balanced approach between competitiveness, sustainability and social inclusion," the evaluation says.
The committee also very positively received Potocnik's "clear manifestation of his political will in favour of doubling the EU research budget".
"Equally appreciated was his openness to dialogue with the parliament and his willingness to admit shortcomings in the current Framework Programme and initiate the necessary reforms. Most groups appreciated the nominee's support for the ITER project," the document says.
The evaluation of hearings of commissioners designate is currently discussed by the heads of political groups in parliament. The parliament is expected to take a vote on the incoming commission as a whole later in October. If it gets the green light, the commission will assume office on 1 November.

Potocnik Endorsed by European Parliament Committee

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