Malta’s Fearne could still be EU commissioner nominee if court clears him, says PM Abela

Fearne has always strenuously denied the allegations.

At a court hearing on July 24, a magistrate will decide whether there is enough prima facie evidence for the criminal case to proceed to trial.   

Speaking today, Abela said “I absolutely do not exclude” that Fearne could be considered for the commissioner role if he is cleared by the court. “Actually, it is a possibility and one of the likeliest probabilities,” he was cited as saying by the Times of Malta.

Fearne was the first name to be put forward from the capitals to join the College of Commissioners. Formerly Europe’s longest-serving health minister, Brussels was convinced he would step into the health commissioner role.