Tonio Borg passes muster, as MEPs grill Commissioner-designate for health and consumers

Tonio Borg, the Maltese nominee for the European Commission's health and consumer protection portfolio, sailed through a three-hour Parliamentary vetting this week, despite repeated questioning about his views on abortion and gay rights. A vote on his nomination will be held next week.

Members of the European Parliament questioned Dr Borg intensively on his nomination, urging action on delayed tobacco legislation and sought assurances on his views on women's rights and non-discrimination, in a hearing on Tuesday.

In his opening statement, Dr Borg described the health and consumer mandate as the "people's portfolio," promising to champion consumer interests and pledging to cooperate fully with the European Parliament.