EU lawmakers are calling for the suspension of Qatar’s access to the European Parliament amid a graft scandal linked to World Cup host.
Earlier the head of the parliament vowed “a wide-ranging reform package” to clean up the legislature.
The parliament’s speaker, Roberta Metsola, says the plan “will include a strengthening of the parliament’s whistle-blower protection systems, a ban on all unofficial friendship groups, a review of the policing of our code of conduct rules, and a complete and in-depth look at how we interact with third countries.”
Belgian authorities triggered the scandal by detaining six people last week.
Four of them — including an MEP and former European Parliament vice president under Metsola, Eva Kaili — have been charged with “criminal organization, corruption and money laundering.” The other two were released.
Both Kaili, a former TV newsreader in Greece, and Qatari officials deny any wrongdoing.
A series of searches at the homes and offices of politicians, lobbyists and parliamentary assistants turned up around 1.5 million euros ($1.6 million) in cash.
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