Source: European Parliament
1. The Commission takes allegations of money laundering or any other financial misconduct seriously. It has a zero-tolerance policy for fraud and corruption and is committed to ensuring the highest standards of integrity among its staff. As regards measures against money laundering, the Commission refers to the applicable EU and national legislation in this area, to which staff of EU institutions are also subject. Inside the institution, the Commission already relies on a comprehensive framework of compliance and awareness raising mechanisms on ethics and fraud prevention, while continuously strengthening its procedures and internal controls. In case of violations of staff obligations, disciplinary measures may be applied.
2. At this stage and pending possible further information from the Belgian judicial authorities, the allegations about the former European Commissioner for Justice do not concern the EU budget or the management of EU funds. Thus, based on the information available to the Commission so far, there is no need to revise the rules and procedures regarding the prevention and the fight against fraud currently in place, as they are solid and comprehensive.
3. The Commission did not receive such information. However, the Commission can confirm that any information, tip-offs, or notices received, be it from internal or external sources, are systematically assessed and, where necessary, referred to the competent investigative authorities (such as the European Anti-Fraud Office, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and the national authorities) for examination.