Pascal Smet compares Brussels with a prostitute

The Brussels Transport Minister Pascal Smet (Flemish socialist) has caused something of a storm by saying in an interview that he compares Brussels with a prostitute. Mr Smet told Ryan Heath of the news website Politico that “I often compare Brussels with a whore. The city is beautiful and exciting while at the same time it can be ugly and repulsive”.

Smet’s comments have been condemned across the political spectrum. The First Minister in the Brussels Regional Government Rudi Vervoort (Francophone socialist) was among those to slam Mr Smet’s words.

In the interview with POLITICO Smet unveils his plans for 21st century Brussels. He talks about car culture and how he believes we should move away from it.