Social Democrats to call for official inquiry into purchase of F-35s from US
The left-wing Social Democratic Party says it will call for the creation of a parliamentary commission of inquiry (CPI) into the purchase of F-35 jets from the US. A parliamentary motion to this effect will be tabled following a debate in the parliamentary group.
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Social Democrats to call for official inquiry into purchase of F-35s from US
The CPI will have to clarify a number of issues and ascertain whether there was individual misconduct or institutional failings within the relevant department, the party told the Keystone-ATS news agency on Sunday, confirming an article in the Sonntagszeitung.
The party also believes the CPI should investigate whether bidders were treated discriminatorily and whether the purchase and operating costs were deliberately distorted in favour of the F-35. It must also be clarified whether the defence ministry provided incorrect information regarding dependence on the supplier.
The matter is being pursued by Senator Franziska Roth, an expert on security policy. When asked about support from other parliamentary groups, the party replied that anyone wishing to restore confidence must ensure a “full clarification”.
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Last Thursday, former Social Democrat parliamentarian Pierre-Alain Fridez called for the creation of a parliamentary commission of inquiry, raising the suspicion that there is far more than simple misunderstanding behind the controversial information on the fixed price.
In an interview with Tamedia publications, he said he was convinced that those responsible had deliberately made false statements to secure approval for the purchase of the F-35 fighter jets.
The CPI is expected to receive the support of the Greens. But the chances of convincing the centre-right majority to set it up appear slim.
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