"The ALDE group is opposed to holding a secret vote on the Turkey report. Parliamentary responsibility and political accountability require MEPs to take positions openly. We reject the coward's option " said Graham Watson, leader of Parliament's third largest group.

Fellow ALDE members, Emma Bonino and Andrew Duff are appealing to all their colleagues to cast their votes in public as a sign of rejection of the secret ballots requested.

A clear majority of members of the group are convinced that Turkey has fulfilled the necessary political criteria to merit the opening of negotiations in 2005. These can take up to 10 years and Turkey will still have to demonstrate continued adherence to the path of reform and readiness to take on board the acquis communautaire.