New legislature, new Commission

The European Parliament elects the new European Commission.

European Commission website

The new Commission

After election by the European Parliament, the new Commission can be formally appointed and take office. Its mandate is the same length as the legislature: five years. During this period, the Parliament will oversee the Commission's work and discuss its political priorities, as well as its legislative and budgetary proposals.

Commission election marathon over

Article - Institutions - 11-02-2010 - 16:23

The new "Barroso II" Commission were in Strasbourg to listen the debate prior to their election by MEPs.

The election of the European Commission by 488 in favour to 137 opposed and 72 abstentions brings to an end almost 5 months of delay due to wrangles in the ratification of the Lisbon treaty. Commissioners propose EU legislation on everything from trade and transport and there was a sense of relief in Strasbourg after the vote Tuesday (10 February). MEPs can only vote to elect the Commission en masse rather than individually so problems with the first Bulgarian candidate delayed matters.

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MEPs quiz new Bulgarian candidate Kristalina Georgieva