Prosecutors said they also searched the home of another EU lawmaker on Saturday without detaining anyone. Marc Tarabella, a member of the Belgian Socialist Party, confirmed that it was his home and that a computer and mobile phone had been taken.
“The justice system is doing its job of gathering information and conducting an investigation, which I find completely normal. I have absolutely nothing to hide and I will answer all questions of investigators,” he said in a statement. “
European Economics Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni told Italy’s Rai 3 television that the matter appeared to be “very serious”.
He added, “If it is confirmed that someone took money to influence the opinion of the European Parliament, it would indeed be one of the most dramatic stories of corruption in recent years.”
The European Parliament is due to vote this week on a proposal to extend visa-free travel to the EU to Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Ecuador. Some MPs have suggested postponing the debate and vote.