Parliamentary Assembly integrity and powers of the investigators

Written question No. 721 to the Committee of Ministers | Doc. 14346 | 20 June 2017

Signatories:

Mr Pieter OMTZIGT, Netherlands, EPP/CD

The Parliamentary Assembly ratified the terms of reference of an independent external investigation body to carry out a detailed independent inquiry into the allegations of “corruption and fostering of interests” made against certain Assembly members or former members.

Mr. Omtzigt,

To ask the Committee of Ministers

1 Do you agree that is it of utmost importance that all members and former members fully co-operate with the investigation?

2 Do you agree that the appointed investigators should enjoy such assistance as may be necessary from member States to effectively fulfil their mandate, including the ability to travel to and within member States without hindrance and seek meetings with whomsoever they consider necessary for the purposes of their investigation?

3 Do you agree that member States should provide appropriate protection and guarantees to witnesses giving evidence to the investigation in good faith?

A full answer on each of the three questions by 1 July would be appreciated, as the investigation will start in July.