Plans May Give E.U. President Significant Perks

BRUSSELS, Belgium — The proposed full-time president of the European Union is to be given a personal jet, a palatial official residence, and a personal staff of up to 22, under plans being considered in Brussels.

The prospect of a private aircraft raises the possibility that the current frontrunner for the new post, Prime Minister Blair, could get the "Blair Force One" he was denied as prime minister.

The terms of the new president were discussed at a secret "working dinner" held on Tuesday between the European Commission president, Jose Manuel Barroso, and E.U. ambassadors.

One attraction of the job will be its clout in terms of the "cabinet" of advisers the new president will be able to assemble. Current proposals suggest an E.U. presidential team of between 16 and 22 people. Such a number would be an important measure of the power of the position. Mr. Barroso presides over a cabinet of 13 people.