Following the Eurozone finance ministers’ decision to designate Luis de Guindos as vice-president of the European Central Bank (ECB), S&D Group spokesperson for economic and monetary affairs Pervenche Berès stated:

 

"We take note of today's Eurogroup decision. Last week, we had the opportunity, as members of the European Parliament, to hold an informal hearing with the two short-listed candidates, Luis de Guindos and Philip Lane.

 

"After this meeting, we were convinced that Philip Lane, the governor of the Irish Central Bank was a better candidate for the top job at the ECB. He has all the qualifications and experience needed.

 

"The choice of De Guindos raises several question marks. Having been a Finance minister of Spain since 2011, his appointment could create a conflict of interest and undermine the independence of the governance of the ECB.

 

 

"Moreover, De Guindos’ appointment will not improve the deficit of women in top jobs at the ECB. We believe that the EU must do a better job in respecting gender balance for top positions.

 

"For all these reasons and given our doubts on the Mr. de Guindos profile, our Group will carefully asses our position in advance of the vote in Parliament".