In theory, Commission officials are required to request permission before going through the revolving door and the Commission can refuse or attach conditions before authorising the move. In practice, the Commission is far too easy-going with giving the go-ahead. In November 2009, however, Brussels-based lobby consultancy Interel Cabinet Stewart proudly announced that Jean-Philippe Monod de Froideville had become their new associate director. Mr. de Froideville, a Dutchman, was a personal advisor and member of Cabinet of Competition Commissioner Kroes until December 31st 2008. Interel’s press release states that Mr. de Froideville will focus on ‘competition and trade matters’, the very same field for which he was so recently responsible in the Commission. Interel lobbies for Rio Tinto and numerous other corporate clients that could have a strong interest in influencing EU competition policy.
Read more at http://blog.brusselssunshine.eu/2009/12/kallas-and-unresolved-revolving-doors.html.