Fri Sep 20 09:13:02 UTC 2024: ## European Parliament Begins Scrutiny of New Commission

**Brussels, [Date]** – The European Parliament has begun its rigorous vetting process of the proposed new College of Commissioners, following a meeting between Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Commission President-elect Ursula von der Leyen. This crucial step marks the start of the confirmation hearing process, which will determine the composition of the new European Commission.

“We are entering a period of intense parliamentary scrutiny,” stated President Metsola, emphasizing the importance of thorough examination of each candidate. “Our citizens are counting on us,” she added.

Under new rules approved in April 2024, the Parliament has an enhanced role in this process. The Committee on Legal Affairs will first review the declarations of interest of each Commissioner-designate.

Public confirmation hearings will be organized by the Conference of Presidents, based on recommendations from the Conference of Committee Chairs. Each candidate will face a three-hour grilling by the relevant committee(s), potentially extending to four hours for complex portfolios. The hearings will be live-streamed for public transparency.

Evaluation criteria for the Commissioners-designate include competence, European commitment, personal independence, knowledge of their portfolio, and communication skills. Committee coordinators will assess each candidate and submit evaluation letters.

A two-thirds majority of committee members from political groups must approve each Commissioner-designate. If this majority is not reached, additional written questions or a 1.5-hour resumed hearing may be required.

Following the hearings, the President-elect will formally present the College of Commissioners and their program to the Parliament’s plenary session. A debate and subsequent vote by roll call will decide the fate of the entire Commission, requiring a majority of votes cast for confirmation.

This comprehensive process, outlined in the EP’s Rules of Procedure, ensures rigorous scrutiny of the new Commission, emphasizing transparency and accountability to European citizens.

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