1982, studies in Law and Political Science, University of Bonn. 1975-76, Military Service; 1982-85, practical training in judicial and other legal work, Saarbrucken; 1985-86, Judge, Saarbrucken; since 1986, Lawyer; 1986-89, German Chemical Industry Association, Bonn, Frankfurt; since 2001, Partner: Cornelius, Bartenbach, Haesmann; CBH, Cologne, Berlin; 1989-94, Member of the European Parliament for South Westfalia; since 1994, Member, German Bundestag; 1996-98, Coordinator, Parliamentary Group, Finance Committee, CDU/CSU; 1998-2000 and 2002-04 Deputy Chairman and 2000-02, Chairman, Parliamentary Group, CDU/CSU; 1998-2000, Member of the Federal Board and 2002-04, Member, Presidium, CDU Party.