EU watchdog criticises ‘secretive’ appointment of close Juncker ally

An EU watchdog has criticised the appointment of a key ally of Commission President Jean-claude Juncker to a powerful Brussels post, saying it breached official procedures and risked undermining public trust.

The European Ombudsman found four instances of “maladministration” in Martin Selmayr’s installation as Secretary-general of the EU Commission, in charge of 30,000 EU employees. He had been Mr Juncker’s chief of staff, and was appointed without objection from the 0 Martin Selmayr denied leaking details of meeting

other 27 EU commissioners. Emily O’reilly’s said the decision breached the EU’S rules “either in letter or in spirit”, but did not say the appoint- ment should be reversed. The commission defended its processes, saying there was no conflict of interest.

Mr Selmayr is seen as the power behind Mr Juncker’s leadership of the EU’S executive branch, developing a reputation for a combative style of behind-the-scenes politics.

Hewasaccusedbysomeconservatives of leaking details of a dinner meeting between Mr Juncker and Theresa May early in the Brexit process, a claim Mr Selmayr denied.

Ms O’reilly said the commission should review its policies and accused it of being “defensive, evasive and at times combative” with the media.