EU tide appears to turn for Borg

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This afternoon’s outcome of Tonio Borg’s hearing as Health and Consumer Affairs Commissioner-designate is far from certain but there seems to a shift in the Socialist group’s position that may tilt the balance in his favour. European Parliament sources yesterday told The Times that the group’s stand – which is crucial for Dr Borg’s survival – had shifted drastically from last week and was likely to be positive. The European People’s Party and the Socialists command a majority in the EP chamber and the backing of the latter will seal Dr Borg’s confirmation. “The Socialist group is almost on the verge of taking an official position to back Tonio Borg,” EP sources said. “Negotiations with Socialist delegations within the group, spearheaded by Labour’s head of delegation Louis Grech, will continue until the last minute, but things are looking positive.” Originally, the Socialists in the EP had taken a confrontational approach towards the nomination. Group president Hannes Swoboda had warned Dr Borg he would be heavily grilled, giving the impression that the Socialists were not keen on his nomination. However, since the Labour Party in Malta has made it clear it is four-square...