OUR European Commission expects the national authorities of Member States to carefully examine observation cases to restore public confidence, Home Office spokeswoman Anita Hipper said today.

asked about case of surveillance in GreeceDuring the next press briefing of the Commission, Ms. Hipper responded as follows:

“We are aware of media reports of the use of surveillance by some governments. Our position is clear. Any attempt by the national security authorities to illegally gain access to the data of citizens, including journalists and political opponents, if confirmed, is unacceptable.. Member States are responsible for protecting their national security and must exercise oversight and control over their security services to ensure that they fully respect fundamental rights. This is absolutely necessary to ensure the protection of personal data, the safety of journalists and freedom of speech. Each Member State is also responsible for investigating such matters and the Commission expects national authorities to thoroughly investigate any such allegations in order to restore public confidence.”

Finally, the representative of the Commission stated that the Commission was in contact with all Member States on this issue.

Source: RES-IPE