Different Voices

Date: 04/11/1999

• “The past few weeks have put the EU's system of scientific advice in the spotlight. I am greatly encouraged that the system has proved its worth.” Consumer Protection Commissioner David Byrne speaking after the Union's scientific sterring committee ruled that British beef was safe.
• “It is not only a matter of negotiating progress. It is also a matter of implementation progress.” Senior Commission enlargement negotiator Klaus van der Pas stressing the need for applicants to match deeds with words.
• “The veto right does not function when there are 15 decision-makers sitting around a table, let alone when there are 20 or 30. It's completely impossible.” Commission President Romano Prodi insisting majority voting must be the rule.