MEPs may ask the Commission to also look into the reports of his influence on Czech media and the judicial system, and to consider using the rule of law conditionality mechanism. The draft text also says that Babiš should not be involved in decisions linked to the EU budget while there is a conflict of interest, in particular the ongoing negotiations about the common agricultural policy.
MEPs are also set to call for systemic weaknesses in EU reporting to be addressed, as currently a comparable, real-time overview of final beneficiaries of EU funds in all EU countries is not available. This makes it hard to detect or prevent conflicts of interest.
Background
In April 2021, more than two years after launching the audit procedure, the Commission published its final report on the implementation of EU structural funds in Czechia, confirming that funds were unduly granted to entities under the Agrofert Group, of which the Prime Minister is the beneficial owner.
Procedure: RSP – Resolutions on topical subjects
Debate: May plenary (19.05)
Vote results: Thursday, 10 June at 9.00
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Plenary debate (19.05.2021) The conflict of interest of the Czech Prime Minister: extracts from the debate
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