Religious intolerance or freedom of speech.

[InsaneApache]

He is warning them of the consequences, he is not threatening them with legal action or undue pressure if they ignore his words. But he represents all of Europe, and you can hardly expect him to throw more oil on the flames of a row that benefits nobody on either side. On the up-side -- and this is the part you have apparently missed -- he also represents all of Europe when he threatens EU-wide sanctions in response to the Arab boycot of Denmark. In other words, this is a gesture that should make some betowelled gentlemen rather nervous. Guess who depends on whom for financial assistance, trade, technology transfers, etcetera?

I'm sorry Adrian but that man doesn't represent me or anyone else for that matter. He should keep his unelected, appointed gob shut. If any sanctions are to be imposed then let them be put in place by a democratically elected body. Not by this crony of Tonys.

Still, you are entitled to your view, as am I.

[Adrian II]

I'm sorry Adrian but that man doesn't represent me or anyone else for that matter.

Yes he does. He has been appointed by democratic consent.

This is how:

• The (elected) EU governments designate a Commission President
• The President-designate is approved by the (elected) European Parliament
• The President-designate presents the other Members of the Commission for approval by all (elected) EU governments
• The (elected) European Parliament interviews each prospective Commissioner and approves the entire team

You may not be happy with his appointment. Nonetheless Mr Mandelson represents the whole EU both legally and diplomatically.

[InsaneApache]

Yes he does. He has been appointed by democratic consent.

This is how:

• The (elected) EU governments designate a Commission President
• The President-designate is approved by the (elected) European Parliament
• The President-designate presents the other Members of the Commission for approval by all (elected) EU governments
• The (elected) European Parliament interviews each prospective Commissioner and approves the entire team

You may not be happy with his appointment. Nonetheless Mr Mandelson represents the whole EU both legally and diplomatically.

So I was right. He is appointed not elected. How is that democratic? You may be happy being represented by appointee, I am not.