Thread by @VanberghenEU

Just reading that @Europarl_EN cancels upcoming diplomatic missions to Morocco & Qatar amid ongoing probes of corruption allegations. 30 MEPs call on to ban Moroccan diplomats from entering #EP pending an outcome in the corruption investigation. Not my approach. #Mythread

The European Parliament needs first to apply the current rules properly. Let’s recall that a decade or so ago, the European Parliament was rocked by a cash-for-influence scandal leading to the resignation of some MEPs. 1/1

As the result, #EP introduced in 2012 a new Code of Conduct aimed at preventing corruption. Everything is in this Code: principles: disinterest, integrity, openness, diligence, honesty, accountability, respect for EP reputation. #Brussels 1/2

There is even a requirement to refrain from obtaining or seeking to obtain any direct or indirect financial benefit or other reward and an Article stipulating that the Bureau shall lay down implementing measures for this Code of Conduct, including a monitoring procedure. 1/3

In short, according to these rules, #EuropeanParliament already has all the tools in place to prevent #corruption, but collusion is generally difficult to identify. 1/4

Do not believe that we can avoid bribery by launching new procedures and regulation. That is not what is needed. What is needed is a cultural change. Every single MEP need to understand that he has been elected to work for the public good & takes pride in being ethical #EU 1/5

I mean the European Parliament is not formed of children. And MEPs are well paid so have no pecuniary needs. What is the role of MEPs if not to address corruption or conflicts of interest, and demonstrating the probity of #EU? 1/6

Fighting #corruption is the most fundamental issue that the #EuropeanParliament can defend, the issues of honesty versus deceit, integrity versus deviousness, acting in the #European interest or acting for oneself. Have a nice day! END

@threadreaderapp unroll please.