Conservative MEPs seek UKIP committee places
The Leader of the Conservatives in the European Parliament has written to the parliamentary authorities requesting that they are given committee places allocated to United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP).
According to the Conservatives, two of UKIP’s MEPs have chosen not to sit on any parliamentary committees.
UKIP are calling for the UK’s complete withdrawal from the European Union, which they regard as undemocratic and contrary to the UK’s interests.
Jonathan Evans, said: “Conservative MEPs were elected to fight for British interests in Brussels, and we will do so vigorously.
“As two of UKIP’s 11 MEPs have decided not to play an active role in the European Parliament, we have written to the Parliamentary Authorities requesting Conservative MEPs fill the vacant committee positions.
“Committee work is a key part of shaping EU legislation, and it is vital that there are people on the committees who will fight for Britain’s interests.
“As UKIP are not going to bother, we will.”
Today’s announcement is Mr Evans’ latest shot in his arguments with UKIP. Earlier this week he was sharply critical of high profile UKIP representative Robert Kilroy-Silk. At a press conference Mr Kilroy-Silk, when asked about declaration of his financial interests, said: “If I feel it is important, I will. If I don’t, I won’t.”
This attitude came in for sharp criticism from Mr Evans, he called on Mr Kilroy-Silk to “come clean on his financial interests and dealings, and clearly demonstrate that there is no conflict of interest between his public and private roles. UKIP rightly complain that the EU is not sufficiently transparent and accountable yet Kilroy himself apparently sees no need to be accountable and transparent to his own electorate.”
