European Parliament leaders have dismissed as a publicity stunt a motion of censure against European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso, who faces questions over possible ethical misconduct.
In a joint statement Friday, parliament leaders called the motion unjustified, disproportionate and aimed at winning publicity for its authors.
Parliament will debate the motion, drafted by EU Deputy Nigel Farage, on May 25.
The European Commission says it is not clear whether Mr. Barroso will attend the debate.
News reports last month said Mr. Barroso spent one week last year vacationing on a yacht owned by Greek banking and shipping magnate Spiro Latsis, after his nomination to the EU post.
Reports said Mr. Barroso plans to work on EU regulations that could affect Mr. Latsis' business. Mr. Barroso has denied any wrongdoing.
Some information for this report provided by AFP and Reuters.
