Statement by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker on the passing of former European Commissioner Leon Brittan

Met dank overgenomen van Europese Commissie (EC) i, gepubliceerd op donderdag 22 januari 2015.

"It is with deep regret that I learned of Leon Brittan i's passing. During his ten years of service to the European Commission he held key posts on competition, trade, financial services and external relations policies. He demonstrated his total mastery of complex issues and was a strong advocate for the single market. A man of strong beliefs, a convinced European, he was skilful in translating political principles into action. In a globalising world, he saw the importance of keeping the European continent open to the wider world. That is what he believed in, fought for and achieved.

In all his dealings, he was a man of great competence and conviction. Many who worked with him here remember him as an articulate, astute, and loyal Member of the Delors i and Santer i Commissions and as an inspiring leader. We in the European Commission, and I personally, will miss the man who made an important contribution to making the EU what it is today and a dear friend for many."

STATEMENT/15/3620

Press contacts

Natasha BERTAUD (+32 2 296 74 56)

Margaritis SCHINAS (+ 32 2 296 05 24)

General public inquiries:

Europe Direct by phone 00 800 67 89 10 11 or by email