Right man for the job?

1 November 2004

Pulling his strings: is Mandelson
influenced by big business?
Image © WDM

Peter Mandelson, the new Trade Commissioner for Europe, was confronted by protestors as he attended the Confederation of British Industry (CBI)'s AGM on 8 November.

Friends of the Earth and the World Development Movement protested outside the conference venue with a Peter Mandelson puppet controlled by the hands of big business.

The two organisations called for a rethink of Mandelson's recent appointment due to his close links with corporations.

As European Trade Commissioner, Peter Mandelson will play a crucial role in on-going international trade negotiations.

It is essential that his role is not tainted by connections with big business - and that the whole process of trade policy within Europe is made more transparent and accountable.

Eve Mitchell, Trade Campaigner,
Friends of the Earth

Mandelson models his latest
corporate sponsors' logos
image © WDM

Campaigners also called for an end to the privileged access given to corporate lobby groups by the European Commission.

Further information

Press release:
Will business be pulling Mandelson's strings in Europe?

Media briefing:
Oh Mandy