EU Competition Chief Faces Criticism Over Hiring American Economist in 2023.
Criticism Mounts Against EU Competition Chief Margrethe Vestager for Hiring American Economist
Margrethe Vestager, the influential competition chief of the European Union (EU), is facing backlash for her decision to hire an American economist for a critical position within her team.
Vestager, who has been at the forefront of investigations into major tech companies for nearly a decade, appointed Fiona Scott Morton, a professor at the Yale School of Management, as the chief competition economist at the European Commission.
The most substantial criticism has come from members of the French government. Laurence Boone, France’s secretary for Europe, expressed her concerns on Twitter, stating that she had discussed the appointment with Vestager and emphasized that “Europe has many talented economists.”
Boone further mentioned engaging in a dialogue with the commission to ensure that the assignments align with European ambitions. Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s minister delegate in charge of the digital transition and telecommunications, also raised questions about the appointment, particularly in light of Europe’s pursuit of ambitious digital regulations.
In response to the criticism, a spokesperson for the European Commission highlighted Fiona Scott Morton’s academic background, extensive experience in economic analysis and competition policy, and her ability to provide strategic guidance on complex financial issues.
The spokesperson emphasized that Scott Morton’s appointment was based on her deep understanding of market dynamics and regulatory frameworks, making her highly suitable for advising on the economic aspects of policy development and enforcing competition rules in the EU.
Fiona Scott Morton holds a bachelor’s degree from Yale College and a PhD in economics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Additionally, she has prior experience in economic analysis at the antitrust division of the U.S. Department of Justice, where she worked from May 2011 to December 2012.
However, a significant concern regarding her appointment is her previous involvement in consulting for major technology companies.
Recently, a group of European lawmakers expressed their disappointment in a letter addressed to Margrethe Vestager, stating that they had learned about the appointment with dismay.
The lawmakers emphasized their concerns and reservations regarding Scott Morton’s experience and potential conflicts of interest, particularly her consulting work for Big Tech companies.
In a letter shared on Twitter by one lawmaker, a group of European lawmakers they have expressed their deep concern regarding Fiona Scott Morton’s appointment.
They highlighted their worries about the potential conflict of interest arising from her previous engagements with prominent American tech companies.
The lawmakers raised particular alarm over her publicly expressed divergent viewpoints and the possible implications for her new position.
Responding to the concerns, a spokesperson for the European Commission had earlier clarified that there had been a limited number of applications for the role, suggesting that the selection process may have been constrained regarding available candidates.
Despite the reservations voiced by lawmakers, Scott Morton is scheduled to assume her new responsibilities in September.
The appointment has drawn attention due to the perceived clash between Scott Morton’s prior affiliations with sizeable American tech firms and her forthcoming role in scrutinizing and regulating those companies as part of the EU’s competition efforts.
The lawmakers’ expressed concerns reflect a desire to ensure impartiality, transparency, and avoidance of potential conflicts of interest that could compromise the integrity and effectiveness of competition enforcement within the EU.
