American economist abandons a key position in the European Union and is questioned by Macron as Chief Economist of the European Competition Agency. European Commission | Morton | Macron
On the 19th, the European Commission announced that American economist Fiona Scott Morton had written to the Commission stating that she had decided not to serve as the Chief Economist of the European Competition Agency.
Margaret Westag, Executive Vice President of the European Commission responsible for digital policy and competition affairs, released Morton's letter on social media on the same day. Morton wrote, "I have decided that the best option for me is to withdraw from the position of Chief Economist."
The European Commission's announcement of Morton's appointment last week sparked controversy. Politicians, including some members of the European Parliament, have questioned the appropriateness of having an American economist provide advice to the European Commission on competition and antitrust matters, as this area involves regulation of the business activities of US technology giants in Europe.
French President Emmanuel Macron stated on the 18th that Europe needs to develop itself to gain strategic autonomy, and the appointment of Morton clearly does not align with this concept. At a summit held at the European Union headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, he questioned: "Is there not a sufficiently excellent researcher in the 27 EU countries who can provide advice to the European Commission?" "There really is no outstanding European researcher with enough academic qualifications to qualify for this job."?
Vestag previously supported the appointment of Morton. She said on the 19th that she accepted with regret.
Jean Noel Barrow, the French ministerial representative responsible for digital transformation and telecommunications, welcomed Morton's decision, calling it a "responsible decision".
Morton is a professor at Yale University in the United States. He held senior positions in the antitrust department of the US Department of Justice from 2011 to 2012 and has provided consulting services to several US technology giants in recent years, which are key regulatory targets of the European Union.