Totnes Liberal Democrats visit European Parliament

12.00.00am GMT Fri 27th Feb 2004

Totnes Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson Mike Treleaven, together with his wife Elaine and Constituency Chairman John Stevens and his wife Sheila, this week went to the European Parliament in Brussels.

In a packed two days they were briefed on a wide variety of issues by M.E.Ps. and European Commission officials. There was also an opportunity to sit in on a plenary session of the Parliament and have discussions with Leader of the Liberal Democrat group in the Parliament, Graham Watson M.E.P.

Commenting on the visit Mike Treleaven said:

'The European Community has had huge successes since its inception and it is a pity that these are not more widely talked about in Britain. The internal market and the euro are increasing trade and prosperity and it is a pity we are missing out. Some argue that withdrawing from the European Union and just dealing with Europe as a trading partner would give us all of the benefits without the disadvantages. This is nonsense. Norway, an oft quoted example, passes every single European regulation separately through its own Parliament in order that it can trade effectively. This means they have to implement EU legislation without having any say in its formation. In effect legislation without representation. There are countless other areas in which we all benefit from the EU notably on environmental issues, freedom of movement and employment and the stability and peace we have all enjoyed in Europe over the last 60 years.'

He continued:

'Europe is not perfect by any means with agriculture and fisheries being two particular problem areas. We should take lessons from these. If we had been in at the beginning we would have had far more influence and this has been the history of our European involvement. If we want to take full advantage of the benefits the EU has to offer and ensure British interests are protected we must be a full and active member in all aspects of the Union. I would recommend anyone to pay a visit to see how Europe works it is a refreshing change from the Yaboo politics of Westminster.'