ACTUALLY it is Tom Carruthers (Oxford Mail, June 17) who is selective in his use of facts in a vain attempt to demonstrate the EU has a democratic sheen.

He ignores the fact that the commission, which has executive powers over the EU, and which is the only body in the EU that can draft legislation, consists of wholly appointed bureaucrats. 

The governmental powers of the commission have been such that some such as former Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt have suggested changing its name to the “European government”.

The commission’s powers also extend to the implementation of all legislation passed, as well as the implementation of the EU budget. 

The oath that these unelected commissioners swear on appointment means that, among other things, they must not take account of the views of EU citizens.

Tom doesn’t also explain why it’s fair that citizens of some countries effectively have 10 times the voting influence of the UK (and indeed) German citizens. Surely democracy is one man one vote – well perhaps not in the EU!

I also love the way Tom explains that nominations to a body by a government are democratic. We have similar structures in the UK and they are called quangos, and most people realise the democratic deficit in these bodies.

Tom also ignores the plethora of non-elected EU presidents.

Actually there is an easy way for the EU to get democratic. Abolish the commission and Council of Ministers – make the EU Parliament the only legislative body with equal constituency sizes across the EU.

In addition if there is an insistence for a president, elect her/him as well. The chances of this happening? Unfortunately very low given the vested interests involved.

Consequences? General disillusionment with the EU across Europe as voters see a huge disconnect between what they want and a remote juggernaut doing what it likes without democratic constraints.

PAUL WILSON
Kennedy Close, Oxford