TechCrunch Disrupt: Neelie Kroes dodges Jean-Claude Juncker question as AOL’s Tim Armstrong denies Yahoo merger
European Union digital commissioner Neelie Kroes performed some masterful sidestepping at TechCrunch’s Disrupt conference in Old Billingsgate.
The outgoing head enjoyed a grilling from TechCrunch’s editor-at-large Mike Butcher on stage including a cheeky question about her boss, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker and his rumoured appreciation of fine wine. Butcher jokingly asked if Juncker liked it a little too much.
“I don’t know, but I know he’s a team player,” she replied graciously. Let’s hope that means he buys the odd round in Brussels, then.
Meanwhile, AOL chief Tim Armstrong was less articulate when facing the difficult questions. When asked in a fireside chat whether there was any truth in rumours of a merger with Yahoo, his answer was a very flat, “no.” That’s that cleared up then.
Once the day’s schedule had come to an end, Disrupt’s VIPs, including speakers, press and distinguished guests headed-off to Heron Tower for dinner at Sushisamba. Heaven knows how their heads are this morning as they amble-up for day two – those smoked plum negronis really do go down a treat.