Biography

I was born and brought up in Wales but I have lived in Abbots Langley, near Watford in Hertfordshire, since 1966.

I have a degree in modern languages and a postgraduate teaching qualification.

Before being elected as an MEP for the first time in 1994, I was an OFSTED inspector. Before that, I worked as a teacher of modern languages and European studies before joining the Buckinghamshire Education Advisory Service where I held various posts, including that of County National Curriculum Co-ordinator for Modern Languages.

I am fluent in French, German, Spanish and have a good understanding of Italian - all of which has helped me a great deal with my work in the European Parliament, particularly in informal meetings.

I have been a member of the British Labour Party since I was 16 because I believed then, as I still do, that a party that is perceived as relevant by very large numbers of British people is the only way to improve social justice, to manage the earth's resources.

I fought my first local government election in 1970 and, before becoming an MEP in 1994 (for Milton Keynes and Bedfordshire), served as a Parish Councillor, District Councillor and County Councillor in Hertfordshire.

I have been married for 38 years and have two grown up children and one grandson. My daughter is a midwife and my son is a computer technician.

My special interests are in energy, renewable energy and environmental issues. I am also very keen to help young people make the most of the opportunities there are for language training, study and travel to other European countries.

I am a member of TGWU (Transport and General Workers Union) and a member of the UNISON (the public section union) Group of MEPs. I am also a member of the World Development Movement, ACTSA (Action for South Africa), SEA (Socialist Education Association)), the Labour Animal Welfare Society, Amnesty International, the Co-operative Party and the Fabian Society.

Apart from my work in politics, I am interested in learning languages and in world music.

Version francaise

Read about Eryl in French