The concert money came out of an EU regional programme for Campania that cost 2.25m euros, Mr Van Lierop said.

BBC: Elton John gig in Italy probed by EU over funding

The Commission does not know how much was paid to Sir Elton John for the gig, Mr Van Lierop said.

BBC: Elton John gig in Italy probed by EU over funding

The Commission's regional development budget is used to fund many projects across the EU. The local authorities are responsible for allocating funds when the project costs less than 50m euros, Mr Van Lierop said.

BBC: Elton John gig in Italy probed by EU over funding