Gareth Thomas MP, Labour’s Shadow Europe Minister, has today written to David Cameron asking if he will keep his promise to allow Parliament to scrutinise his choice for the UK’s next EU Commissioner.

David Cameron named the Leader of the House of Lords, Lord Hill, as his nomination for the UK’s next EU Commissioner today.

The full text of the letter is below:

Rt Hon David Cameron MP

Prime Minister

10 Downing Street

London

SW1A 2AA

15 July 2014

Dear David,

In response to a question from my Labour colleague, Nia Griffiths MP, during your statement on 30th June on the EU Council meeting, you confirmed your support for the idea of enhanced UK Parliament scrutiny of Britain’s next EU Commissioner.

In response to her question: “What opportunity will this Parliament have to scrutinise his proposed choice of the next UK Commissioner to Europe?”

You replied, “The hon. Lady asks an important question. As has happened on some other occasions, asking a potential candidate to see Members on certain Select Committees is something I am absolutely prepared to consider.”

I am writing to ask why, over two weeks since your statement to the House of Commons, Parliament has not yet received any further information as to how this scrutiny might be delivered in practice.

I’m sure you will agree that given the importance of the role, it is vital that such scrutiny takes place and that your nominee is able to demonstrate they are committed to an ambitious EU reform agenda, are capable of working across parties, and are able to demonstrate an ability to prioritise British interests.

It would be disappointing if your nominee were only to face scrutiny from the European Parliament, and not our own, before their nomination is confirmed.

Given the public interest in this issue, I am releasing this letter to the media.

Yours sincerely,

Gareth Thomas MP

Shadow Minister for Europe