Although the Commission is acting in conformity with the law when it does not intervene in disputes between contractors and sub-contractors, the Ombudsman considers that the impression that the sub-contractors are left with should not be underestimated. In line with the Commission's endeavours to bring Europe closer to citizens and to inspire them with confidence in the EU and its institutions, the Ombudsman considers it useful for the Commission to take whatever measures possible in order to avoid situations that leave citizens with an unjustified negative impression of the EU institutions.