Commission launches brothel probe

By Tim King

Date: 07/07/05

The European Commission has begun disciplinary action against two of its staff who were alleged by the Belgian newspaper De Morgen to be part-owners of a Brussels hotel said to be used as a base for prostitutes. Two of the owners of Studio Europe were named as Carmela L. G., an Italian, from DG Budget, and Georges T. a Greek, in DG Employment.

The two officials were invited by the Commission to answer questions from the investigation and disciplinary office, which reviewed the allegations in the newspaper in the light of Article 12 of the staff regulations ("an official shall refrain from any action or behaviour which might reflect adversely upon his position").

On the basis of this hearing, the Commission has decided to open disciplinary procedures.

The European Commission has launched disciplinary action against two of its staff who were alleged by the Belgian newspaper De Morgen to be part-owners of a Brussels hotel said to be used as a base for prostitutes.