During his five years in office Mr Brüner has faced severe criticism on numerous occasions. Yet on 14 February the Commission decided to reappoint him even though the COCOBU and the Council had found other candidates more suitable. This decision clearly indicates that the Commission's promises of reform, improvement of financial control and fighting fraud are not a priority.

Does the Commission not agree that the reappointment will have consequences for OLAF's credibility and independence, with Mr Brüner owing so much to the good will of the Commission and influential lobbying in order to be reappointed, making it difficult to investigate fraud? Under these circumstances, how can the Commission describe this as a strong mandate?