Conservative environment spokesman Julie Girling said: "I am deeply disappointed by this news. I wait to hear the details but on the face of it this looks like a complete volte face by Mr Juncker. I believe that in a leaner, less bureaucratic, growth-focused Europe, the role of science should be augmented not diminished. I shall be pressing Mr Juncker to explain why he has reneged on his commitment and to detail what he intends to do next."
The role of the scientific adviser has been "To provide independent expert advice on any aspect of science, technology and innovation as requested by the President, (and) analysis on major policy proposals being submitted to the College." It has been hailed by many MEPs for providing important scientific checks and balances to wayward or over-zealous environmental and food-safety legislation.
Before his presidency was confirmed last month, Mr Juncker attended a meeting of European Conservatives and Reformists Group MEPs to canvass support. When questioned directly by Mrs Girling he assured her the post would remain. Today she said: "We need more scientific input, not less. That's how we keep flaky legislation off the statute books. "I fear Mr Juncker has caved in to the Green lobby."
