Interesting one this. Mandelson was very pro-trade and pro-free market. Accordingly he polarised opinion within the EU. The protective instinct of the French and their President Sarkozy meant Mandelson was their Public Enemy No. 1. They won't miss him - other than losing a figurehead to vent their anger at.
However, when countries put forward Commissioners for the EU Commission, they are supposed to do so in the interest of the EU, not their own nation state. Thus, once appointed the EU Commissioner operates in the EU, rather than national, interest.
The reason I raise this is that Michael Crick has just done so in the PM's press conference that has just taken place. The PM had argued that Mandelson had been brought back into government because of his huge experience in business and interenational trade etc, vital at such a difficult economic time. Crick then said to the PM that he would have a lot of explaining to do to his EU partners about why he had recalled Mandelson if his experience was as important as the PM was saying - surely it would be better for the EU as a whole if Mandelson's talents were utilised as a Commissioner, not selfishly by the UK government? [Not Crick's words, but that was the gist].
To which Brown replied saying it was right for British interest...
Not a very good European, Mr Brown (though me knew this already). This will further disappoint the Europhiles...
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