Here are Eryl's latest press releases.

Press releases by subject

Press releases listed in date order with most recent first 

For more information on any of these stories click here to email John Walden, Press & Liaison Officer.

Agriculture, farming and food 

Animal welfare 

Air travel 

Business

Child welfare 

Consumer issues 

The Eastern Region of England 

Employment issues

Energy, Research and the Environment

The European Union 

Health 

Human genetics

International relations

Language learning 

Personal 

Social issues

Trade

UK Government

Women 

Agriculture, farming and food

12 December 2002

"Errors in foot and mouth report" says Euro MP

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, says that there are errors in the EU's report on the UK outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD). She is joining other labour MEPs in proposing amendments to correct factual inaccuracies when the report comes before the full European Parliament sitting in Strasbourg (on Tuesday 17 December).

  Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said" The EU Temporary Committee on FMD has got some of its facts wrong, and my colleagues and I in the Socialist Group are looking to make eight corrections to the report."

My main concerns are those related to the legality and effectiveness of the contiguous cull and to allegations of animal welfare abuses and of biosecurity lapses which allowed the disease to spread."

"I am assured that the contiguous cull of farms surrounding infected premises was legal, not only in British Law but also in European Law. What's more, two court cases have confirmed this.  Sadly the cull was an essential weapon in bringing the disease under control."

"The report suggests that the disease was spread by improper handling methods but no evidence was ever produced to prove this."

"As far as alleged animal welfare failures were concerned there were no prosecutions instigated for this, and in the absence of other evidence it has to assumed none occurred."

"My Labour colleagues and I are very keen to see these mistakes corrected. Thereafter it will be a helpful document for many interested parties not only in the UK but across Europe."

"What makes matters worse, however, is that some Tory members of the committee are trying to suggest that the UK government somehow falsified the figures for the total number of animals slaughtered.  These actually come from the National Audit Office and are based on the compensation claims farmers made.  It would bizarre if farmers hadn't claimed for all slaughtered animals.  This is typical cheap Tory trouble making."

10 July 2002

"Farmers must face up to reform on EU agriculture funding," 

says Euro MP

Today sees the issue of the European Commission's mid term review of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, says she wants farmers to face up to the need for big changes.

Mrs McNally said, "In the main farmers do a good job but they can't expect to go on for ever receiving taxpayers' money to produce their goods.  It's just not fair that across the EU 50% of the budget, amounting to £27 billion-a-year, is spent subsidising 5% of the population."

"What I want to see is a shift in funds away from intensive farming and the moving of grants to programmes aimed at improving the environment and reviving rural economies.  Rural communities aren't just about agriculture; they are very diverse and the people there stand to get more help if we can move away from the outmoded funding mechanisms of the CAP."

"It's simply not sustainable to go on paying EU farmers to produce surpluses that we dump on the world market.  This undercuts producers in the developing world and leaves many there in poverty. The Commission's proposed reforms should see the end of wasteful wine lakes and butter mountains." 

8 July 2002

Euro MP backs tougher rules on GM food products

In the recent (3 July) European Parliament session in Strasbourg local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted for tougher rules for the labelling of GM food products. The Parliament backed a draft regulation to label items with at least 0.5 per cent content of GMOs (genetically modified organisms), or lower if scientifically acceptable.

Mr McNally, said, "This has been a very contentious issue and we now have to persuade the governments of the fifteen Member States that this is the best way to protect consumers' interests."

The tougher regime, which needs the approval of EU Member State governments, would require labelling of all products containing GM ingredients, including animal feed bought by farmers, and the labelling of products containing GM ingredients such as oils and sugars, even if they are not scientifically detectable but are identified through traceability schemes reliant on documents.

She added, "I couldn't agree to join some of my colleagues in their efforts to get Parliamentary backing for a scheme under which products could be marketed as GM-free, only if they had zero GMO. Their proposals were rejected. My view is that we have to credit consumers with some common sense and only produce labels if they really mean something. The proposals we're making are very sensible and should make things much clearer for consumers." 

3 July 2002

"Big changes needed on EU's agriculture funding", says Euro MP

Responding to speculation in national newspapers that the issue of a report on the EU's Common Agricultural Policy is imminent, local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has said she hopes it will be bring about big changes.

Many see the £27 billion-a-year Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) as unsustainable, and it is thought the European Commission will recommend a shift in funds away from intensive farming and moving grants to programmes aimed at improving the environment and reviving rural economies.

Mrs McNally, said, "I blush when I meet people from developing countries.  Way back the original aim of the CAP of helping farmers to provide affordable food may have stood up but with larger units and improved farming methods we're simply paying farmers to produce surpluses that we dump on the world market.  This undercuts producers in the developing world and leaves many there in poverty."

"It's also very embarrassing to try and justify the fact that the EU spends six times more on subsidising farmers than it does on its aid budget.  After all, farmers represent a tiny proportion of our population but we spend vast sums on farming, particularly on huge agri-businesses."

The G8 group world leaders have backed plans for a new initiative to target poverty and disease in Africa that includes an additional $6 billion dollars of aid for the region and plans for a new initiative to assist the continent.

Commenting on this Mrs McNally, said, "I very much welcome the efforts of Tony Blair and other world leaders to address the problems of Africa.  However, what they've announced seems only a drop in the ocean, in essence only making up for the fall in commodity prices that Africa had suffered.  It's clear that most African countries are making real efforts to stop corruption and to be more democratic, and this deserves are tangible support."

22 May 2002

Euro MP welcomes rural conference

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, has welcomed the announcement by Margaret Beckett MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, that the Labour Party is organising the first ever national party conference on rural issues.

Mrs McNally said, "Representing a diverse region that includes many rural communities I think this is an excellent initiative.  Irrespective of where we live across the region we all may have similar concerns, but these often have a special rural dimension."

"Labour has 180 MPs representing rural and semi-rural constituencies - that's four out of ten Labour MPs - so it's absolutely essential that we talk to our own members and other interested parties about issues of importance to these communities."

The national conference will be held over a weekend in July and will be sponsored by the Co-op - Britain's biggest framer, and the Transport and General Workers' Union - the trade union for rural workers.  It will address issues such as the rural economy, including agriculture and tourism, as well as transport, housing, health, education, the environment and the fight against crime.”

Mrs McNally added, "The Government’s Rural White Paper is widely recognised as the right agenda for rural England, but we want to build on that and this conference is an important milestone in our developing dialogue with rural communities.”  

14 March 2002

Labour Euro MP backs farmers in Tractor Deal

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has backed a deal agreed on new EU Health and Safety legislation on vibrations caused, for example, in tractor driving..  The special provisions will mean that the new rules won't apply to farmers until 2014 and will provide relaxed exposure limits across the board.  Independent farmers and self employed workers taken on to help out in busy periods will not be covered at all.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "I'm pleased we've been able to reach a compromise in our conciliation talks with Ministers from EU Member States.  These are also in line with what the National Framers' Union was originally lobbying for."

"All but the Tories from the main political groups in the European Parliament supported this very balanced stance and it creates realistic targets and timetables for all sectors of industry."

"We were very mindful of the serious health implications, including musculoskeletal problems and back pain, that can be created by high levels of vibration and exposure for long periods.  We have a clear responsibility to protect the health of people at work.  However, we didn't want to impose any additional and unnecessary strain on the farming industry in what are already very difficult times."

"We have taken account of the special circumstances in the agriculture sector, but have set the standards within which open cast miners say they can work so it should also be workable for farmers as well." 

Note to Editors:
*The deal, negotiated between EU Governments and Euro MPs, extends the transition period for the farming industry - before the Directive applies - until 2014.
*And raises the limit for "whole body exposure" to a relaxed level of 1.15 units - the value for which the NFU, excavation and other heavy equipment manufacturers, originally lobbied.
*The negotiated deal must receive final approval from EU Government Ministers and MEPs before coming into law.

12 December 2001

"Get rid of food scandals," says Euro MP

In a week in which BSE has appeared in 2 new EU member states local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the European Parliament (12 December) to support the setting up of a new European Food Safety Authority.  There was an overwhelming majority in favour of an EFSA, which as a result will be established in just a couple on months' time in February.

The new regulatory body will provide rigorous scrutiny of all food and animal feed produced in the EU and imported from outside.  It will have an Executive Director appointed after parliamentary hearings, a management board, picked on merit, and an advisory panel from the member states.  There will be full transparency, with meetings in public and all opinions put on the Internet without delay, and a role in the rapid alert system for responding to potential food dangers.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Local people will be able to sleep sounder when this body comes into force. Consumer protection is a major responsibility of the EU and this makes good news all round from the European Parliament."

"The EFSA will search out where any risk lingers, be it BSE, dioxins, salmonella, GM crops or Foot and Mouth Disease.  It should rid us of further food scandals and give us the safe food we deserve."  

24 October 2001

Euro MP joins battle to protect farmers

Euro MP for the region, Mrs Eryl McNally, joined other UK Labour MEPs in the European Parliament in voting to give exemption to farmers from new EU health and safety rules which might have kept them off their tractors at harvest time.

Speaking after Euro-MPs voted overwhelmingly to exempt farmers from the new rules Mrs McNally said, "This isn't the harebrained scheme some Euro sceptics had tried to make out but a very serious health and safety issue that has at its core the well being of those who operate machinery and large vehicles.  However, Euro MPs have listened to the concerns of Britain's farming industry, and won a significant battle towards exempting them from these rules which are ill suited to their needs."

"High levels of vibration and exposure for long periods, experienced in using tractors and similar machinery, can cause a range of health problems including musculoskeletal problems and back pain.  It became clear though that new time limits were looked upon sceptically by Britain's own Health and Safety Executive so this rang alarm bells demanding a fresh review."

"The British farming industry has been going through very difficult times and Labour MEPs did not wish to add an unnecessary burden through legislation that might take farmers off their tractors at the busiest time of the year without very good reason."

"Our vote will give an exemption to the farming community for at least 5 years and we will be demanding proper research and scientific information to justify any consideration of its removal."

Euro MP has beef with French ban

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the preliminary ruling by the Advocate General of the European Court of Justice that the continuing ban on the import of British beef by the French is illegal.  The court is based in Luxembourg and only deals with matters concerned with the running of the European Union.  Although this ruling is only advisory for the moment a final and binding judgement will be made in a few months.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is very good news for British farmers.  It's ironic, however, that the preliminary ruling comes at a time when, because of foot and mouth disease, we're not exporting beef at all.  British farmers have had a tough time in recent months and I hope this news brings some consolation."

"Rightly all EU governments were cautious about Mad Cow Disease or BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy) but the French were in the wrong to ignore a ruling which had the unanimous endorsement of the whole EU scientific steering committee - chaired by a Frenchman.  They failed to remember that if you sign up to a set of rules then you should keep to them."

"Several of my French colleagues in the Parliament are very sympathetic to our case.  Strenuous efforts were made to resolve the situation through negotiation with the French national government but sadly they left us with no option but to go through the courts.  Since the Court usually agrees with the advisory opinion there is every likelihood that it will be confirmed quite soon."

"Everyone in the European Parliament has public health and safety as a priority so the French should accept what we know in Britain, that because of our stringent regulations British beef is the safest in the world.  They should lift their ban immediately."

Note to editors:

BEEF TIMELINE

14 July 1999: On the advice of its Scientific Committee, and after more than three years of a trade blockade following the BSE crisis, the European Commission announces worldwide exports of British beef can begin again on 1 August.  The ban on British beef was imposed by the EU in 1996 at the height of the crisis over Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) or Mad Cow Disease.

1 August 1999: Farmers celebrate the official end of the export ban. The first consignment of animals due for export are prepared for slaughter as a marketing drive begins - centred on France.

3 August 1999: France and Germany cause anger among British farmers by announcing they will not lift their ban on British beef immediately. Both say there are further questions over safety.

4 August 1999: The Government formally voices its concerns to the French and German authorities as the possibility of a legal battle looms for the first time.

1 October 1999: After a lull in hostilities, Anglo-French relations deteriorate as the newly-established French Food Safety Agency - in its first judgement - recommends that the ban stays in place for safety reasons. Agriculture minister Nick Brown angrily condemns the action as contrary to EU law, and is swiftly backed by European consumer protection Commissioner David Byrne

25 October 1999: The Government signals it might take action to ban French meat after an EU report discloses French farmers had been feeding their livestock with human and animal sewage.

28 October 1999: Hopes of a clear-cut ruling on the issue appear to receive a setback after a meeting on the EU's Scientific Steering Committee breaks up, apparently "nowhere near" a consensus.

29 October 1999: Just before 5pm British time the committee issues its unanimous verdict - that there is no justification for the French ban.  The chairman is the French scientist, Professor Pascal.

31 October 1999: As the French and German governments drag their feet, a plan is announced for Britain, France and the EU to hold a crisis meeting two days later to sort out the impasse.

2 November 1999: After three hours of talks, Britain agrees to reopen five key elements of beef safety measures, pushing the eventual date for the end of the ban still further into the future.

5 November 1999: Agriculture officials from Paris and London meet in Brussels at the request of France to "clarify" the UK's arrangements for safeguarding against mad cow disease. After nearly seven hours of discussions, the delegations depart to report back to their capitals.

9 November 1999: Giving evidence to a Commons select committee, Mr Brown promises: "No concessions have been made to the French and no concessions will ever be made."

16 November 1999: EU food safety Commissioner David Byrne announces the start of legal proceedings against France - one of the then 85 outstanding Commission legal actions against the French for breaching EU rules.

23 November 1999: Britain and France agree a joint "protocol of understanding" meant to clear the way for an imminent resumption of beef exports.

6 December 1999: After days of deliberations, the French Food Safety Agency in Paris refuses to rule on whether British beef is safe, and passes the buck to Prime Minister Lionel Jospin. A final verdict from the French government is expected within 48 hours.

8 December 1999: At about 10pm British time Prime Minister Jospin announces the decision - the ban will stay in force.

30 December 1999: French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin's office announces it will take the European Commission to the European Court of Justice over its decision to lift the embargo on British beef.  The government said "scientific elements contained in the advice of the French Food Safety Agency (AFSSA) should have persuaded the commission to revise its decision to lift its embargo, or at least to suspend it".

At the same time, the European Commission confirms it will take France to the European Court of Justice for failing to lift its ban on British beef.

15 February 2000: The European Commission begins legal action against Germany over the country's failure to lift its ban on British beef.

17 March 2000: The upper house of the German parliament votes to lift a ban on the import of British beef.   Europe's food safety commissioner David Byrne calls a halt to legal moves against Berlin, instigated the previous month, for failing to lift the ban
 

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the announcement by the European Commission that it intends to bring new legislation before parliament to amend its food labelling directive.  The proposals intend to ensure that all consumers are informed of the complete contents of foodstuffs and to enable consumers with allergies to identify any allergenic ingredients that may be present.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is very positive news for consumers and shows the Commission to be very responsive to lobbying both by groups and individuals.

The amended directive would abolish the "25% rule" which currently means that it is not obligatory to label the components of compound ingredients that make up less than 25% of the final food product.  Instead all ingredients intentionally added would have to be included on the label under these proposals.  They would also establish a list of ingredients liable to cause allergies or intolerances and would include alcoholic beverages if they contain an ingredient on the allergen list.

Mrs McNally added, "These proposals will give a boost to consumer confidence and will provide complete transparency by listing all ingredients.  When this comes before the European Parliament I shall give it my full support."

"Besides the clear benefits to consumers of full information on ingredients there are the more serious health risks involved with allergens.  These can cause illnesses, often of a chronic nature, but can also trigger life-threatening reactions.  This should allow those affected to buy products with more confidence and represents a very positive step in protecting people's health and well-being."

Note to Editors:
In the White Paper on Food Safety, the Commission announced its intention of proposing an amendment to the Labelling Directive 2000/13/EC, especially the "25 % rule" which means that currently, the components of compound ingredients which form less than 25% of the final product, need not be indicated on the label. This 25% rule was introduced into Community legislation more than 20 years ago in order to avoid inordinately long lists of ingredients. It is based on the principle that the consumer knows the composition of compound ingredients and can therefore deduce, for example, that jam added to biscuits is prepared with fruit and sugar. This percentage will be abolished with the new proposal.

However, since then, food production has become more and more complex, and people eat a lot more processed foods. Over the past few years, consumers have repeatedly expressed the wish to be better informed about the foodstuffs they purchase, and specifically about their composition, even if full ingredient labelling will inevitably make ingredient lists longer. Furthermore, the many recent food scares have reinforced this need for information.

Information is particularly important for certain consumers who suffer from allergies or adverse reactions to certain substances. The proportion of the population with food allergies or food intolerances is increasing all the time (according to the allergy associations 8 % of children and 3 % of adults are affected) and new allergens are emerging. These allergies not only cause illnesses, often of a chronic nature (e.g. atopic dermatitis, urticaria, digestive symptoms), but can also provoke life-threatening reactions (asthma, anaphylactic shock). For these people the lack of detailed information is a handicap, in that they are never sure that the product they are buying does not contain the allergen that can provoke an adverse reaction. Allergic consumers therefore need to have complete and precise labelling and the new proposal provides for that.

The new requirements have been drafted with certain de minimise provisions to avoid absurdities or over-regulation. To prevent the risk of labelling becoming too complex, and to take account of the technical constraints associated with the manufacture of foodstuffs, the proposal authorises some limited derogations, not applicable to allergens), and a flexibility with regard to the listing of ingredients used in very small quantity. The additional labelling requirements will enter into force after a transitional period to allow companies to bring product labelling into line with the new provisions. The proposal will be forwarded to the Parliament and the Council under the codecision procedure.

List of potential allergenic ingredients to be labelled:
Cereals containing gluten and products thereof
Crustaceans and products thereof
Eggs and products thereof
Fish and products thereof
Peanuts and products thereof
Soybeans and products thereof
Milk and dairy products (including lactose)
Nuts and nut products
Sesame seeds and products thereof
Sulphite at concentrations of at least 10 mg/kg"

16 March 2001
Euro MP meets NFU on foot and mouth

During this week's European Parliament session in Strasbourg local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, met leaders of the National Farmers' Union to discuss the foot and mouth disease outbreak in the region.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England region in the European Parliament, said, "My discussions with NFU leaders were very useful and gave me an opportunity to be fully briefed on the farmers' perspective as well as allowing me to convey my sympathy to farming communities for the suffering this disease brings."

"It was heartening to hear that the NFU believes the measures being taken by the UK government are the right ones and are getting its full support."

"Britain has been very unlucky in being the first country to be hit by foot and mouth but we must remind ourselves that it's not our fault.  Sadly other EU countries may get the disease as well but at least they can be prepared and take precautionary action."

"I will be urging the UK government to do whatever it can to help other industries hit by the outbreak, such as haulage and tourism businesses."  

7 March 2001

Minister speaks at Silsoe 

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, was host to a visit by the Rt Hon Joyce Quin, Minister for Agriculture, at the Silsoe Research Institute on Tuesday. 

The Minister came to Mid-Bedfordshire to address an international conference, organised by the MEP, on the potential of using crops to produce energy. Ms Quin said that there was a bright future for the development of energy crops and in view of the serious implications of climate change it was imperative to progress their potential. She added, however, that technologists and farmers need to work hard to develop the market. Mrs McNally, who is the spokesperson on research and energy for the Parliamentary Socialist Group and also the President of the European Forum for Renewable Energy Sources, said, "The Minister gave her full encouragement to the audience of farming and business representatives and researchers to move ahead with this renewable energy source. In addition, she was speaking on the same day the Prime Minister Tony Blair addressed the World Wildlife Fund conference and committed a further £100 million to include a kick start to energy crops." Mrs McNally added, "The funds announced by the Prime Minister are a major down-payment in our future and will also help open up huge commercial opportunities for Britain. She concluded, "With their heavy dependence on agriculture Bedfordshire and the wider East of England region are ripe for this development. My personal hope is that we can become the leaders in this technology, making a significant difference to the quality of life of generations yet to come."

15 February 2001

Euro MP cautious on ending GM crops moratorium

Local Labour Euro MP Mrs Eryl McNally voted in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg to end the two-year EU moratorium on GM crops licences.  The tough new GM licensing laws will come into force in 2003 and the European Commission will now start the process of issuing licenses for new GM products for commercial planting in Europe.

Mrs McNally, who is the Spokesperson on Research for the Parliamentary Socialist Group said "With this vote, consumers can have confidence that GM products licensed for sale in the EU have met the toughest standards in the world.  Having said that though, I continue to feel that the public are right to demand caution - it's especially important to be careful about planting distances - pollen travels further than was originally thought, for example."

She added, "I regret that the European Commission has failed to introduce long awaited GM liability laws - which should have been adopted in parallel with the new licensing.   GM companies applying for licences must take financial responsibility for the products they produce or new GM foods and crops will go on the market with no one to foot the bill if things go wrong."

Note to Editors:

In 1998, the EU agreed to impose a moratorium on new EU licenses for GM products until the EU's GM licensing laws were updated to take account of developments in scientific knowledge.

In an unprecedented move, the European Commission has agreed to grant new GM licenses to companies which sign up to the requirements of the new EU laws before they come into force in 2003.  Thereby, ending the GM moratorium currently in place.

Proposals to make GM companies financially responsible for the products they produce were narrowly defeated in the European Parliament in April last year.  Companies would have been required to take out insurance to cover any possible damage to human health or the environment caused by GMO's and could be sued if, for example, genes from their crops escaped and created "superweeds" or GM crop foods were found to damage health.

After the vote in Parliament, the European Commission made a commitment to include GM liability in its broad ranging new proposals for legislation on Environmental Liability but this is still 'in the pipeline'.

19 September 2000

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has warmly welcomed the European Commission's recent announcement that it is taking steps to make it compulsory for all eggs from Europe's 300 million laying hens and any fresh eggs sold in the EU to be labelled with how they are produced.

Mrs Eryl McNally, who is an MEP for the East of England region, said, "This is very welcome news and is a big step forward not just for shoppers but for European farmers who operate to high welfare standards. This region's egg producers, most of whom run their operations to exceptionally high welfare standards, will find themselves on a level playing field, which can only improve the success of their business.

The RSPCA's Freedom Food scheme has seen many producers following a voluntary code of labelling and this has proved that many consumers want to buy free-range eggs when given the choice. Currently across the EU nine out of ten hens are kept in cramped battery cages and, if approved, these recommendations will at last give consumers the power to choose how they want their eggs produced." 

Animal welfare

18th November 2002

Euro MP concerned over animal experiments 

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has expressed concerns over a recent report from the European Parliament's Environment Committee that has criticised several Member States for failing to enact completely or correctly a directive on the protection of animals used for experimental and other scientific purposes. 

  Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Happily it seems that the UK is not named in this report but it is still very worrying that Member States such as France, Ireland, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain, aren't following rules to the letter on this very sensitive and important issue."

"The report suggests that standards differ on several points of the implementation and enforcement of this directive.  It's not right for Member States to attach different degrees of importance to animal welfare.  We must get a common, and high, standard.

"I'll be backing calls for standards to be raised across the EU and for better monitoring by Member States."

"I also want to see experiments on endangered species banned."

28 October 2002

Euro MP welcomes "victory for pet owners"

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is a real victory for pet owners as it will do away with the lengthy quarantine they've had to endure when wishing to take their animals abroad."

"This is good common sense coming from the EU and is largely based on the UK's Pet Travel Scheme as introduced by the Labour government in 2000."

"People are travelling much more now or have homes abroad, and they often have pets that they want to take with them. With a proper scheme in place across the EU's fifteen Member States owners can go with their pets but not have the dreadful fear of rabies hanging over them."

"With veterinary knowledge and technology combining there's no reason why we shouldn't reach the point at which pets could be taken to Canada and the USA."

"Although a relatively minor issue for most people, my post bag shows that many pet owners value greatly the opportunity to have their pets travel abroad with them, so it's good for pets and people alike."

17 June 2002

Euro MP votes to ban animal-tested cosmetics

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, joined an overwhelming vote in the European Parliament (on 11 June) for a ban on the sale, in the EU, of new cosmetic products tested on animals.

Mrs McNally said, " I know from my post bag how very pleased many of my constituents will be that Parliament has voted for this. The only regret is that it will not come into force for at least five years. It will be preceded by a ban on animal testing, within the EU, for cosmetic products from December 2004. We'll also need the agreement of the Member States so I hope they won't be frightened off by complications with World Trade Organisation rules."

"It's estimated that 38,000 animals are used and killed in the EU alone every year for the development of new cosmetic products such as shampoos, shower gel, lipsticks etc. In Britain testing cosmetics and their ingredients on animals has been banned since 1998, but most cosmetics sold here are manufactured abroad and therefore subject to animal tests."

"An EU sales ban would mean that cosmetics, tested on animals, could not be sold in the EU. Big cosmetic companies would have to find alternative non-animal tests to sell new products on the European market. I hope that they'll act quickly, even before any ban comes into force, to respond to what many European consumers want- namely cosmetics produced without the suffering of animals.

9 January 2002

Dog and cat fur warning

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is asking shoppers to take care that they are not buying articles made from dog and cat fur.  She says it's quite common for items like parka trims, gloves and ski boot lining to use these products that come from a brutal and cruel trade mainly based in Asia.  She also says that many are intentionally mislabelled with false names to mislead the public.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Italy, another Member State of the EU, is banning the importation of dog and cat fur and I want us to do the same.  I've already asked the President of the EU to bring legislation before the Parliament that will ban this evil trade across the EU.  I'm now writing to the region's Labour MPs to seek their support for a UK ban."

She added, "With the USA banning dog and cat fur imports last year the evil perpetrators are focusing their activities on Europe.  We can't let them get away with a trade that sees annually over 2 million animals killed solely for their fur.  Some of the animals are bred, others bought and many are stolen only to live short miserable lives in appalling conditions.  I hope readers will write to their MP to get this trade stopped." 
 

14 November 2001

Euro MP backs crack down on live animal transport

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg for new and improved standards for animal transport.  These will include 8 hour journey time limits or 500 Km, just over 300 miles, maximum journey length.  She also supported moves to abolish the EU's multi-million Euro export scheme that subsidises the export of thousands of live animals every year to countries such as those in the Middle East.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Although the EU has standards in place on the transport of animals they are widely abused and pretty useless when it comes to stopping cruelty to animals in transit".

"From this country alone we export over a million animals, mainly sheep and lambs, each year for slaughter abroad.  In far too many cases these animals are subjected to terrible conditions for long hours.  Some die before reaching their destination."

"There should be no place for animal suffering in the European Union and I hope that the Commission will quickly bring forward draft proposals for new animal transport standards.  These must contain clear provisions for enforcement." 

Note to Editors:
Live farm animals are frequently transported over long distances within the European Union for slaughter or for further fattening. In addition, EU export refunds have encouraged the long distance trade in live animals from the European Union to countries in the Middle East and North Africa.

In long distance transport, particularly for animals for slaughter, conditions can be appalling and the level of care is often inadequate. The export trade has given rise to a further problem of livestock vessels that may not be properly equipped or maintained.

Under present European law, animals may travel for a maximum of eight hours before they are rested, fed and watered. However, if a "special vehicle" is used, the journey time can be increased to as long as 24 hours for pigs, or 29 hours for cattle (including an hour's rest period). Special vehicles have to meet certain criteria, but these are inadequate for such long journeys and do not include measures such as mechanical ventilation, which is necessary for the animals' wellbeing.

As long ago as 1993, the European Commission recognised that existing EU legislation on animal transport was out of date and unenforceable. A European Commission Report concluded that, "long distance transport in overstocked vehicles, combined with dehydration and starvation results in very poor welfare and often in high mortality."

The European Commission is expected to produce the detailed draft proposals for new EU animal transport standards, in the coming months.

14 June 2001

Euro MP calls for dog and cat fur ban

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has called for a ban on the importation of dog and cat fur into the EU.  This is in response to the publication of findings of an 18-month undercover investigation carried out in Asia by animal welfare organisations.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "I'm asking the Belgian President of the EU to bring legislation before the Parliament that will ban this evil trade.  The USA has banned the import of dog and cat fur and this is an example to us all, but also means that traders are diverting their activities to areas like the EU."

"American humane societies have documented the brutal lives and cruel deaths of over 2 million dogs and cats in Asia killed each year  solely for their fur.  It is clear that these unscrupulous traders intentionally mislabel the fur with false names to prevent consumers knowing what they are buying.  The fur is used in parka trims, gloves and ski boot lining and even full-length coats.  Ironically domestic pets may even be chewing on dog skin when they have a dog chew."

"Dog and cat fur products have been found on the market in German and Spain and there's no reason to believe they won't turn up in other European countries like our own.  Some of the animals are bred, others bought and many are stolen only to live short miserable lives in appalling conditions.  I'm sure people here don't want anything to do with this fraudulent trade."

"Animal transport is not Ab Fab" says Euro MP

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, recently met up with Bafta award winning actress Joanna Lumley to publicise the plight of animals being transported across the EU.  The star of stage and screen, perhaps recently best known for her portrayal of Patsy in the TV series
Absolutely Fabulous, was visiting the European Parliament in Brussels to press for stricter controls on animal transport.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Joanna Lumley was charming and is clearly very committed to the cause of animal welfare.  Like her I am horrified at
the conditions in which animals are routinely transported hundreds of miles across the EU often to end their lives in inefficient abattoirs."

"We must have better rules which will prevent this cruelty.  It is little known that animals can be transported for up to twenty-four hours.  Although there are regulations requiring feeding and watering of
animals, policing of this is difficult and the practice of keeping animals penned up in trucks for such long periods is just unacceptable
to most people."

"Some of this traffic is part of a marketing ploy by traders to pass off meat as having originated in one country when it started its life in another.  There's no reason why people in one part of the EU shouldn't
enjoy meat products from other Member States but the best way to do that is kill the animals near to home and export them dead as meat."

"I hope the interest shown by an international star like Joanna Lumley will help to bring to the attention of the public the need to change the way in which we treat the animals that are to end up on the plates of
both people locally and across the rest of Europe."

"I would be interested to hear the views of readers on this subject.  Please click here to find out how to contact me

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has issued a warning to holidaymakers heading for Spain not to eat the meat from bulls killed in the ring.  She says it carries an increased risk of BSE.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, says, "Many people don't realise that the bulls killed in the ring for so-called entertainment end up as a luxury meat dish.  They're also unlikely to know that the weapons used to pierce the bulls' brains are used time and again so running the risk of passing on infection."

She added, "Personally I consider bull fighting a barbaric and degrading activity and I'd prefer it didn't exist.  Spanish colleagues in the Parliament share this feeling, but while bull fighting remains legal visitors to Spain should be wary"

Mrs McNally, who knows Spain well and is a fluent Spanish speaker, concluded, "I'd ask holidaymakers to think twice about supporting this terrible spectacle and to avoid eating meat from animals slaughtered in the ring."  

26 June 2000

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is calling for the great ape family – gorilla, chimpanzee, orang-utan – to be given special protection in their central African habitats to help end their slaughter as ‘bushmeat’.

Mrs McNally said, "While my main concerns as an MEP have to do with the lives of people here in the East of England Region many of my constituents have shared their worries with me over the increasing bushmeat trade in Central Africa, and the EU does have an involvement there.

The old argument that animals were killed to feed the starving local population has been exposed as untrue in many areas and the killing of these endangered species is purely for profit.

The EU meets from time to time with representatives of the African, Caribbean and Pacific nations, that’s 71 countries all of which have former colonial ties with EU Member States. In spite of agreements reached several years ago little improvement has been achieved in the situation. The EU is involved in this issue because its foreign aid helps projects like logging operations in Cameroon, for instance, where lots of evidence was found on the bushmeat trade.

Although many different species are affected I’m focusing on those like gorillas and chimpanzees because they are man’s closet animal relatives." 

15 May 2000

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has committed herself to working within the European Parliament to ban the import of dog and cat fur. This follows a two-year undercover investigation by the Humane Society of the United States, which has been publicised by our own RSPCA.

Mrs McNally said, "Millions of dogs and cats are killed annually for their fur which is passed off on the public through mislabelling by unscrupulous people within the fur industry. This is a growing trade, partly because of the fur’s relatively cheapness, which has its origins in Asia but the jackets, hats, gloves, fur trims, stuffed animals and toys are finding their way into Member States of the EU. It’s unclear whether these products have reached our shores but forensic tests are being carried out on products found in the UK."

"What makes the situation worse is the video evidence from China, Thailand, Korea and the Philippines showing dogs and cats being kept in appalling conditions, before being clubbed, throttled or stabbed to death. The methods of transporting, housing and slaughtering dogs and cats for fur are generally unregulated and inhumane and so inflict severe trauma and prolonged suffering on these animals.

"I will be seeking the imposition of a ban on the sale, manufacture, offer for sale, transportation and distribution of dog and cat fur products, regardless of their source. I know from my post bag that animal welfare issues are very important to local people. I have to say to anyone who might consider buying fur products that they should think again."

Air travel

24 October 2002

Euro MP backs more cash for 'bumped off' air passengers

Statutory compensation will be set at between £125 and £250 for short haul flights (less than 3,500 km) and £370 for long haul flights (over 3,500 km), and will apply to cancellations including on charter flights.

Mrs McNally, who is Labour MEP for the East of England Region, said, "This is more good news for consumers coming from the European Parliament. Besides the extra money in compensation that airlines will have to provide for their mistakes and malpractice, this legislation also covers low fare airlines for the first time. They too will have to sharpen up their act."

"Low fare airlines have changed the face of air travel but they must still recognise consumers' rights. It's just as inconvenient to be turned away from your flight irrespective of how much you paid for your ticket, so compensation should be the same for all."

"This move effectively doubles the fines levied on airlines and should cause them to think twice before leaving passengers in the departure lounge. If we don't get the desired improvements from the airlines the Parliament has the right to increase the fines in three years' time."

She added, "In addition to monetary compensation dumped passengers will have a legal right to refreshments, meals or hotel accommodation. The EU is making sure that travellers at its airports will get a fare deal."

"Much distress and inconvenience is caused by flight delays and this new law will expose the worse perpetrators in terms of lost luggage, delays and overbooking. Airlines will have to publish their performance record for all to see so would-be air travellers will be able to chose their carrier based on the standard of service provided. Once again the airlines will have to give better service if they are to attract business. A similar scheme in the USA has seen rapid improvements in service so there's no reason why this EU initiative shouldn't deliver the goods for British people." 

10 June 2002

Euro MP backs moves on air flight health risks

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, is backing moves to get new legal safeguards implemented to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) among air passengers

Campaigners are in Strasbourg this week to meet EU Health Commissioner, David Byrne, Transport Commissioner, Loyola de Palacio, and MEPs of all nationalities and political groups.

Mrs McNally is backing their calls for airlines to be required to provide pre-take-off health briefings on all flights - comparable to the safety briefing already required, along with information on DVT to be made available to passengers on their tickets, particularly on preventative action.  She is also supporting the allocation of EU finds to assess the public health risks for passengers on long-haul flights, in particular on DVT.

She said, "The maintenance of good public health for all of its citizens is very high on the EU agenda.  Given the tragic cases brought to light in recent months there is the need for urgent action to educate the public about the health risks from DVT."

"As these sad cases have shown, blood clots on flights can affect anyone, regardless of age or state of health.  It seems that relatively simple precautions can be taken but it's essential that travellers are made aware before flying."  

12 December 2001

Euro MP welcomes less aircraft noise

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed proposals by the European Commission for new legislation on restricting aircraft noise.  A new Directive is planned that targets action on the worst affected airports, with the possibility of banning noisy aircraft altogether if necessary.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, “This is very welcome news for many of my constituents who live near an airport.  Although this is a medium term scheme it does mean that over time people will experience a real difference in noise from aircraft.  I know that many residents suffer from this aspect of environmental quality of life and some even get hearing problems or stress related conditions."

"To date we've lacked a common methodology for measuring aircraft noise but it seems that this proposed legislation would bring in objective criteria for use across the EU.  It also provides for the phasing out of the noisier aircraft that just made the standard by the fitting of so-called hushkits.  They'll now only have until April next year before they have to disappear."

"With my job I know more than most how convenient aircraft travel can be either for business or pleasure but we have to get the balance right between aircraft operators and the those living near airports.  The environment is a major issue for the EU and I'm sure this legislation will improve the quality of people's lives."  
 

5 September 2001

Euro MP votes for new refund deal for delayed air passengers

Delayed airline passengers will have a legal right to ticket reimbursement or an early alternative flight following a vote which local Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, supported in the European Parliament this week.

The refund proposals are part of a groundbreaking package of new legal rights for air passengers.  These will include about a fourfold increase in compulsory compensation for passengers denied boarding to an aircraft through overbooking.  Airlines will also have to publish their records on lost luggage, delays, overbooking, flights cancelled, complaints etc. which will result in clear 'league tables' of airlines.

The new legislation will demand new minimum standards for contracts in air travel.  Airlines will have to write clear contracts that spell out the service provided and the conditions applied i.e. the fare, additional fees, charges and taxes, conditions for refunds, rights of disabled people etc.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is yet another good news story coming from the EU.  Far too many people, myself included, can recount horror stories of flight delays and the intolerable conditions they had to suffer while waiting.  Air travellers can look forward to a much better standard of service thanks to the European Parliament."

"This legislation will impose tough new standards on an industry which has neglected its customers for years.  We're demanding on behalf of air travellers the decent service that they deserve"

"Too many people have suffered distress and inconvenience caused by flight delays but this should reduce as airlines are exposed for their bad service. I'm hoping that this will lead to the eventual eradication of the problem.  If it does happen then travellers will have the right to their money back."

"Similarly people will vote with their feet when they realise, for example, how likely their luggage is to go missing with some airlines.  A similar system adopted in the USA has brought about great improvements and I'm sure the same will happen across the EU"

Mrs McNally concluded, "I'm also pleased to support moves to get the European Commission to fund research into the links between deep vein thrombosis and long distance air travel.  Airlines should also be required to give more information to passengers on such health risks and to provide advice on the precautions they might take." 

Note to Editors:
There are two parts to the package.

1. The legal measures
The European Commission intends to propose legislation creating legal rights for passengers, including rights on delays, contracts, consumer reports and denied boarding.

Delays After delays, airlines will have to offer passengers a choice between ticket reimbursement and an early alternative flight. They would be forbidden to annul whole tickets when a delay or cancellation prevented a passenger flying part of a flight.
Denied boarding The European Commission has signalled plans to increase compulsory compensation for passengers denied boarding to an aircraft through over-booking.
Contracts  Airlines would have to write clear contracts which spell out the service provided and the conditions applied.
Scoreboards The Commission intends to publish regular consumer reports comparing the performance of airlines on the basis of compulsory provision of data.

2. The voluntary measures
The European Commission agrees that some changes should be introduced through voluntary arrangements with the industry.

These could include commitments to offer the lowest fares available, to allow reservations to be held for a certain time and to introduce simpler procedures for complaints.  Airlines should not be able to increase a fare after a ticket is booked and prices would have to distinguish between the fare and additional charges including taxes.  Disabled people should be provided with services such as assistance to and from aircraft free of charge.

Many of these commitments are included in the "Airline Passenger Service Commitment", a voluntary agreement, adopted by the EU and the industry, in May 2001.

So when will the new rights apply?
For the legal rights, it may take three or four years.  With the approval of Euro-MPs and Government Ministers, the European Commission can now start to draw up the draft legislation to bring the new rights into force.  That will take time, however, with difficult issues yet to be resolved, for example, the length of delay after which the right to ticket reimbursement would apply.

The new voluntary standards will apply from February 2002.  Individual airlines and airports are in the process of "signing up" to the voluntary agreement negotiated earlier this year, although it is not yet clear that all will agree to meet the new standards.

Euro MP calls for setting of cabin air quality standards

Labour Member of the European Parliament, Mrs Eryl McNally, who represents this area has called for the EU to set standards for the quality of aircraft cabin air.  This follows her own personal experiences of poor quality cabin air, which prompted her to write to local newspapers asking for local people's opinions.  She was inundated with responses that indicated that the problem seems to be widespread.

Mrs McNally said, "On making enquiries of the European Commission I was pleased to discover that they are undertaking studies on this subject.  Unfortunately the results will not be known for a couple of years.  Meanwhile I suspect that some airline companies will continue to not be as careful as they might be on monitoring the quality of their cabin air.  It's been claimed that some even ignore the well being of their passengers by not running their air conditioning systems just to save money."

"People who fly a lot tell me they are often aware of feeling unwell for hours after flying and they put it down to poor air quality in the cabin.  Recycled cabin air creates an environment rife for the passing on of infectious diseases.

"I know our own House of Lords is taking an interest in the matter but I want there to be a Europe-wide standard established to protect the health and well being of passengers.  The current hit and miss situation shouldn't be tolerated for a moment longer.  Cheap cost cutting practices by airlines should be outlawed by EU legislation." 

2 April 2001        

Air quality in aircraft cabins

LETTER TO EDITOR

You will not be surprised to know that as a Member of the European Parliament I spend quite a bit of my time flying and not just between the UK and Brussels or Strasbourg.  I'd like to find out through your columns if any readers, like me, have experienced poor quality of air in aircraft cabins.

It's been suggested to me that some airlines have a policy or practice of turning off air conditioning under certain circumstances and I certainly feel that I've experienced this.  On these occasion there has been a noticeable deterioration in the quality of cabin air and the result for me has been a headache and relative lethargy.  This practice can't be good for the health of the travelling public.

I'm looking to take this matter further but would appreciate any information readers might be able to give me.  Please click here to find out how to contact me by post or email.

Business

23 September 2002

"It pays businesses to access EU research funds", says MEP

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, recently (Friday 20 September) hosted a conference in Hatfield, Herts, to give representatives of local business, universities and research centres the opportunity to question top European Commission officials about getting hold of EU research funding.  The new research programme, to start in 2003, has £12.5 billion available, and Mrs McNally hopes to see a fair share of that coming to our region and, in particular, to small local firms.

Mrs McNally said, "Although there were some complaints about slow payments and excessive bureaucracy (the downside of the rigorous control designed to prevent fraud) the overall verdict was very positive."

"I must say that the three civil servants from Brussels whom I'd invited - one British, one Spanish Basque and one German - were very game and by the end of the day had managed to sweep away the "mindless Brussels bureaucrats" stereotype. They showed themselves to be very dedicated, very knowledgeable and very willing to learn from some of the bad experiences described to them. All in excellent English, by the way."

"The small firms made it clear that the combination of money and the chance to work with partners from other countries - made incomparably easier because the EU exists - had enabled them to be far more successful."

Mark Wells, Research Director of Televirtual of Norwich, gave a presentation about how his company had got involved in EC funded projects.  He said, "Our involvement in EC-supported collaborative projects undoubtedly helped speed up the rate at which we achieved our goals."

A similar message came in another presentation from Brian Beer, Senior Project Engineer with Alpha Thames Ltd of Upminster, Essex.  He said, "The down -side to being involved in EC projects is far outweighed by the funding assistance and the fact that the Commission is always good at listening to problems and is flexible about changes of plan."

Mike Philips of the Anglia Polytechnic University Business School, said, "I deal with many family-run businesses, and the conference has given me a lot of information that I can share about the mechanics and structures of EU funding."

Margaret Hollingshead of the Academy of Learning, a training organisation from Bishop's Stortford, said, "One shortcoming of the system is that there is an absence of a clear set of criteria for bidding but this message was taken on board by the Commission officials.  They certainly seemed very keen to help and to de-mystify things."

Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator on research matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "The future prosperity of the East of England depends not on big businesses but on small companies who can innovate and use new technologies.  The help that the EU gives via its research budget is very significant in encouraging the development of business and is good for creating jobs."  

10 September 2002

Mrs McNally, who is the spokesperson on industry matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, " What we're trying to achieve is the free movement of goods so that consumers and small businesses can benefit. At present different types of sales promotion are allowed in different Member States and consumers are not reaping the benefits of cross-border price transparency available thanks to e-commerce and the introduction of the euro."

"These plans, set to come into force in about two years' time, should allow local companies to run Europe-wide sales promotions such as "two-for-one" offers, freeing up restrictive practices and helping them to reap the full benefits of Europe’s single market."

"There are 350 million consumers in Europe’s single market and this regulation will help our firms to get a foothold in other European markets. Sweeping away the many different rules on sales promotions in the 15 Member States, so that discounts and free gifts, for example, will be able to be offered, can only free up the market and serve consumers better."

"In addition, the Legal Affairs Committee of the Parliament has already decided not to tamper with promotions like 'happy hour' in pubs. All in all this is another good news story coming from the EU benefiting local people."

Child welfare

7 June 2002

"World Cup is time for red card on child labour", says MEP

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, is backing calls for more to be done to stop child labour being used in the production of footballs, many of which are sold across Europe.  Several manufacturers have their hand stitching workshops in countries like India and Pakistan, and Mrs McNally fears official World Cup balls could risk being tainted by the trade. Mrs McNally, who represents the European Parliamentary Socialist Group on industry matters, said, "Reports are reaching us from well respected sources that despite measures apparently being put in place to stop this trade, hand stitching of footballs by children is still going on in these countries outside the usual production areas."

"Football's world governing body - FIFA - has committed itself to eradicating child labour in the production of footballs for its major events but there seems to be no guarantee.  Unscrupulous manufacturers will go to great lengths it seems to mask their true operations.  With poverty rife in these countries it's not surprising that children are forced into work like this but all conventions concerned with human rights have outlawed the trade world-wide."

"I'll be adding my name to calls in the Parliament for FIFA to take full responsibility for labour conditions in factories where their licensed goods are produced.  In particular I want them to make sure that no child is employed in the making of their sportswear and footballs.  Where they find child workers they should act in a responsible manner and ensure that they are rehabilitated and given an education."

"Many of the sports goods manufacturers are multi-national companies, and my colleagues in the Socialist Group and I are calling on them to ensure that none of their suppliers break the rules.  We're also demanding that they publish independently verified reports to show there's not breaking the rules."

"The World Cup is a fantastic festival to be enjoyed by young and old alike, and its good name shouldn't be blighted by the exploitation of child labour."

18 June 2001

Euro MP backs tougher penalties on child porn

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg for proposals to increase legal sanctions against child pornography and trafficking in people.  

She backed plans for major improvements to the European Commission's submission in establishing a legal framework  aimed at a clearer definition as to what constitutes labour and sexual exploitation. Mrs McNally said, " I welcome the vote in favour of these proposals and am glad that the EU is prioritising its agenda to deal with the abhorrent crimes of sexual exploitation of children and of child pornography.  The proposed common legal framework is a great advance in ensuring the enforcement of criminal and judicial cooperation for combating and eliminating criminal networks."

The proposals look to unify the criteria for penalising major crimes regarding sexual exploitation of people under 16 years of age. They also call for more rigorous prosecution of, and more severe penalties for, those found to be engaged in such crimes.  There are also proposals to help the victims of such crimes through rehabilitation programmes.

Mrs McNally added "Discussions have been going on for almost ten years and tougher legislation can't come too soon for me.  I hope that the Council of Ministers will accept these proposals so that laws can be put in place to combat the new slavery of human trafficking and also the sexual exploitation of children."

Local Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, joined her Labour colleagues in the recent European Parliamentary session in Strasbourg in endorsing new EU-wide rules to speed up procedures for returning illegally abducted children home to Britain.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England region, said, " This is a civil liberties issue that has greatly concerned Labour MEPs and we're extremely pleased to see our sustained efforts over a long time rewarded with these new laws."

The new move is intended to simplify and speed up procedures for returning illegally abducted children home to Britain from other EU countries by overcoming the legal impediments which may prevent one country giving legal recognition to child access rights granted in another. It introduces practical measures to improve co-operation between national authorities to speed up the process of returning abducted children to their homes.

Eryl added, "Thankfully these cases are few but each one brings untold heart ache for the aggrieved party. I'm sure this legislation will give peace of mind to hundreds of British parents whose children go abroad to visit ex-husbands or wives as part of separation agreements. These parents can now say goodbye to their children safe in the knowledge that, if anything should go wrong, the legal structures are in place to get their children back fast.''

The new rules will have to be formally endorsed by EU government ministers, possibly as early as next month, before becoming law. 

15 May 2000

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has called on local people not to engage in or encourage the smuggling of beer from mainland Europe. She is concerned that because the rogue traders don’t care to whom they sell their goods, the cheap beer is too easily getting into the hands of young people and children. She is also concerned that if the trade continues to grow this might be the death knell for parts of the legal licensing industry.

Mrs McNally said, "Plenty of evidence exists to show the link between cheap smuggled beer and anti-social behaviour of young people on our streets. Teenagers acknowledge having alcohol related problems both at home and at school and some know their unwanted sexual experience or unprotected sex was due to alcohol. It’s a sorry state when we find children as young as eight being admitted to hospital for acute alcoholic intoxication."

"In a survey carried out at Dover last year on behalf of the licensing trade three towns in the East of England Region came in the top twenty destinations for vans carrying beer. Chelmsford was fourth with 4,790, while Luton had 3,480 vehicles and Peterborough 1,870. This was just one sea route so the findings represent the tip of the iceberg – every one’s locality is involved."

"As well as the worrying effect on children, this fast-growing illegal trade is putting at risk thousands of jobs of those properly employed in the licensing industry. I hope local people won’t give any support to this criminal activity and will expose to the authorities these callous bootleggers."

Consumer issues

9 July 2002

Euro MP backs campaign to fight stress at work

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is backing a Europe-wide campaign to fight stress at work that was launched at the European Parliament in Strasbourg last week.

The EU's "Working on Stress" campaign is designed to raise awareness of the causes of stress at work.  The campaign wants more-positive attitudes towards stress among staff and employers - better-defined roles at work, greater control for individuals and better communication which it is claimed would all help improve job satisfaction and therefore the quality of work.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Stress is a real killer, not just for high-flying executives but just as much for those with monotonous, poorly paid jobs.  Of particular concern is the fact that women are more likely to be affected than men.  Everyone in the workplace needs to be made much more aware of the signs and causes of stress."

"This seems to be a growing problem with an estimated 41 million workers across the fifteen EU Member States affected by occupational stress.  It's thought that at least half of all working days lost in the EU can be attributed to stress and, in the UK alone, five million days a year are thought to be wasted because of it."

"Work related stress is a real human tragedy but it also has big economic consequences as well.  I hope our campaign can help to get people better informed and encourage better working practices that will lead to stress at work being sidelined for good." 

3 June 2002

Euro MP wants to stop printers "scam"

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, has backed moves by the EU to investigate allegations of anti-competitive practices with computer printer ink cartridges.

Mrs McNally said, "This investigation is long overdue as consumers have been complaining for some time that they get sold supposedly cut-price printers with their computer deal only to find that the replacement cartridges work out very expensive.  Constituents tell me it's a scam."

"It's claimed that in this way printer manufacturers are making money hand over fist.  People have little choice but to buy own brand cartridges due to housings being designed in such a way that a cheaper, generic product won't fit."

 "As far as I'm concerned the EU has to be first and foremost about getting a fair deal for the consumer.  If these allegations are borne out then the European Commission must act to stop this practice."

24 April 2002

Euro MP backs shake-up for football TV rights

Speaking after a recent hearing of the EU's Competition Authority, Labour Euro MP for the region, Mrs Eryl McNally, said she backs reform of the bidding system related to football broadcasting.  The Authority has been taking evidence from interested parties and is looking to make a ruling on the legality of the current system of marketing TV rights before the summer.

Eryl, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "I want to see fairness in the system so that the big clubs get a decent reward but also allowing the money to filter down to the smallest clubs.  Without this, poorer clubs will wither and people's choice to support their local side will disappear.  We'll also be denied much of the home-grown talent that starts in the lower divisions."

"I realise that the current system of central bidding has some merits but it needs modifying to ensure fairer competition between broadcasters and to ensure the health of all clubs big and small.  Huge TV rights packages allocated to single bidders can't be good for the game or for TV viewers."  
 

14 March 2002

Euro MP welcomes new rules on food supplements

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, supported the successful vote in the recent Strasbourg session (Wednesday 13 March) of the European Parliament to bring in new rules on food supplements.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Food supplements are a fast-growing and very important part of many people's diet for healthy living.  However, it's important that what they're taking is in fact safe and good for their wellbeing."

"This directive will ensure that all these products are registered and checked out for safety at high dosages.  Despite some scare mongering on the issue there was overwhelming support for the proposals.  This means that we can have the same information we ask of all other foods and medicines."

"My Labour colleagues and others in the Socialist Group moved a successful amendment that provides for a 36 month transition to enable all supplement producers to register for the positive list of approved supplements.  This will give the small producers the time they need."

"This is another good news story from the EU.  With a safer regime on food supplements it's good for consumers, and we may well see more people using and benefiting from things like vitamin and mineral supplements.  It's also good for industry as many of these products are produced by UK based manufacturers."  
 
 

28 February 2002

Euro MP says UK car price 'block' must go

Commenting on the recently released (25 Feb) car price survey, local Labour Euro MP, Mrs. Eryl McNally, says this still shows consumers in the UK paying far more for their cars than buyers in other EU countries.  She has repeated her call for the car pricing system regulated by the EU to be dismantled.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, added, " It's simply unfair for British consumers to be penalised in this way.  The current pricing regime inflates car prices and stifles healthy competition."

"The EU is meant to be about a single market, one in which competition drives down prices and benefits the consumer.  For over twenty years this just hasn't been happening on car prices."

"My Labour and Socialist Group colleagues in the European Parliament are committed to getting the so called ' car block exemption' removed.  This will give British consumers a fair deal and can't come soon enough for me.  
 

18 February 2002

"Metric measure predates EU membership," says Euro MP

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs. Eryl McNally, has welcomed the news that the High Court has thrown out the case brought by market traders seeking a loophole in the law to avoid using metric measures.

Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator on industry matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "British Governments of all persuasions have supported the transition to metric since the 1960s.  The decision to go metric was not foisted upon us by some unaccountable body but was taken independently by our own government."

"This took place years before we even joined the EU.  Our government and democratically elected British MEPs agreed to insist on the use of metric measure but have negotiated a ten-year changeover period that lasts until the end of 2009.

"Sadly these traders are out of step with the modern world, but when you hear their spokesman he sounds more like a politician.  There's no doubt in my mind that this issue has been stirred up by anti-European Conservatives and their friends in the UKIP.

"The metric system is easy to use and is what we find on our travels across mainland Europe and elsewhere, and is good for international trade."

"Changing from pounds and ounces has gone pretty smoothly so far, and for most people buying in metric measures is not an issue.  For several years to come we shall have dual labelling in metric and imperial measure both for loose and pre packed goods so shoppers shouldn't have a problem with the transition."  

Note to Editors:

1. Britain has been going metric for over 100 years

Metrication has been the consistent aim of the British Government of all complexions since the last century.  The UK first announced its intention to go metric following a Select Committee Report in 1862.

2. Metric has not been foisted on the UK by the EU

The UK Government (Lab) decided to go metric in 1965, before Britain joined the EU.

"In 1965 the then Government announced their support to encourage the adoption of metric units as the primary system for weights and measures in the United Kingdom.  That was a decision taken for purely domestic reasons, in response to urging by the CBI and others, it had nothing to do then with possible membership of the European Community."  Francis Maude MP

Excerpts from the 1989 House of Commons Debate (European Community, Weights and Measures, 11 April 1989).

3. Why? Because the rest of the world was going metric

By 1965, when the UK Government first decided to introduce legislation to move to the metric system, most European countries had gone metric.  America was intending to go metric, as were all the other major Commonwealth countries.

Europe: Most European countries adopted the metric system in the second half of 19th century.  France went metric in 1842, Germany went metric in 1880.  Russia went metric after the Russian revolution.  European countries adopted the metric system - which was devised by the French in the late 1700's - because it was popular and easy to use.

America: America started to go metric in early 1970s.  US legislation "The Fair Packaging and Labelling Act" requires that products are labelled in US imperial and metric measurements.  The dual marking requirement is without time limit.  When the UK negotiated a 10 year extension for dual marking in the EU (until 2010), the US agreed that it would seek to introduce a change to a metric-only system, before the expiry of the ten year period agreed in the EU.

Commonwealth: The other major Commonwealth countries including, Australia, Canada, India, Pakistan and St Africa have gone metric.  They started after UK and finished before us.

4. The Tories support the metric martyr

The Tories change their views on metrication depending on whether they are in opposition or government.

In 1972, when joining the EC, the UK, under a Conservative Government, gave a commitment to go metric.

In the 1970's, while in opposition, the Conservatives consistently spoke out against metrication.

In Government again, 1979 -1997, the Conservatives agreed the two key EC Directives - Directive 80/181/EEC and Directive 89/617/EC - which phased out the use of imperial units in the UK.  These Directives are at the heart of the metric martyr case.  (Directive 89/617/EC set the final dates for the introduction of metric measurements for pre packed (1995) and loose goods (2000)).  Douglas Hurd MP, Linda Chalker MP and Francis Maude MP were present in the EU Council when the 1989 Directive was approved.

Now in opposition, the Conservatives oppose metrication again, saying they will "revisit" the metric issue when in Government - and fight for an "opt out" for loose goods. (Times 23/6/2000)

5. But the Tories and UKIP had their chance to fight for an "opt out" last year and they didn't do it.

Under pressure from the UK, EC Directive 80/181/EC was amended last year to extend the period for dual labelling (for loose and pre packed goods) for metric and imperial until Dec 31st 2009.

When the decision was approved by the European Parliament in 1999, neither the Tory nor UKIP MEPs tried to introduce a permanent "opt out" for loose goods - to cover traders like the metric martyr.

6.  The UK has gone metric

Since the 1980's, most packed goods - packs of washing powder, pots of coffee, packets of sugar etc - sold in high street stores or supermarkets, have been marked in metric only.  Some still have dual marking but this is the exception rather than the norm.

Petrol has been metric since the mid 1980s "price per litre" and consumers are not bothered.

Pre-packed goods went metric in December 1995 - this mainly applies to pre-packed fresh food i.e. meat, fish etc. where the size of the individual piece of food etc. will vary from pack to pack.   The EU rules allow for dual marking for pre-packed goods until 2010 and consumers have adjusted to the change very easily.

Problems seem to have arisen when goods sold loose went metric in January 2000.  Dual marking is also allowed until 2010 to help with the transition.  Despite some public concern about the change over, the transition for loose goods is almost complete too,

4 out of 5 weighing machines in the UK have gone metric (or have dual weights showing).

Only 1 in 5 weighing machines is still imperial - mainly because of legal uncertainty about the change over.   We would expect the remaining traders to change over rapidly once the validity of the UK metric legislation metric legislation is reaffirmed.

7. This case is being taken on a technicality.

The Metric Martyr case is being taken on a technicality - on the grounds that the UK regulations are invalid as they were introduced as secondary rather than primary legislation.  If the Court had upheld the trader's case on a technicality the Government could simply put the relevant legislation through again.

It will be up to the Government of the day to decide whether a further period of dual marking is needed after 2010.

8 February 2002

Euro MP backs clampdown on tired lorry drivers

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent European Parliament session (Tuesday 5 Feb) to close one of the last remaining gaps in the working time framework laid down in 1993 by setting new working hour limits for long distance bus and lorry drivers.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This should bring to an end tired bus and lorry drivers going through the night on long-haul journeys and can only make our roads safer.  The new law will give them the right to a 48 hour working week and a new deal on night work and break times."

"The current situation in which drivers may do in excess of 80 hours per week is patently unsafe not only for themselves but also the travelling public.  Excessive driving times can lead to fatigue and accidents."

"The new rules will still enable drivers to cover considerable distances.  I'm first and foremost backing what is an important safety measure but am confident this shouldn't stop local haulage and coach businesses being competitive."

Note to editors:
The key provisions of this new legislation on working time in the road transport sector are as follows:

48 hour week, averaged over six months
A ten hour limit on night driving
A half-hour break after six hours and a forty five-minute break after nine hours.  These breaks can be broken down in to more frequent shorter stops.
A wide definition of working time which includes loading, unloading, admin, route planning etc. - as opposed to just driving time.
Consignors, who send drivers out on the road, must ensure that additional hours are not imposed on drivers, further down the line.

6 February 2002

Euro MP welcomes new car deal for consumers

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed yesterday's (Tuesday 5 Feb) announcement by the European Commission on the so-called 'car block exemption'.  It has said it intends to prepare legislation to allow for multi-brand dealerships, servicing of all brands by authorised independent repairers and the sourcing of spare parts direct from producers.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is excellent news for British car buyers.  For over twenty years carmakers have escaped the kind of competition which drives down prices and delivers a better deal for consumers.  The proposed new directive should lead to more choice for car buyers and cheaper prices."

"The Commission has considered the views of a wide range of interested parties including the very powerful car manufacturing lobby.  The proposals are clearly on the side of the European consumer.  This can only be good for local car owners."

"The EU is meant to be about creating a single market that generates fair competition and gives consumers reasonably priced goods.  These proposals take us firmly in that direction." 
 
 

1 February 2002

Euro MP hopes for cheaper cars

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is keenly awaiting the publication next Tuesday (5 Feb) of a European Commission report that reviews the so-called 'car block exemption' that keeps car prices artificially high in this country.  She wants a radical overhaul of the existing system so that British car buyers get just as good a deal as anywhere else in the EU.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "For over twenty years carmakers have escaped the kind of competition which drives down prices and delivers a better deal for consumers.  They simply can no longer justify this iniquitous situation that inflates car prices and stifles healthy competition.

"The EU is meant to be about creating a single market that generates fair competition and gives consumers reasonably priced goods.  I hope that the Commission will be recommending changes that give a fair deal to British car buyers." 
 

28 January 2002

Euro MP backs fines clamp down

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has backed moves to close legal loopholes that allow foreign companies to get away with paying fines.  She voted in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg for plans to introduce an EU system of mutual recognition of financial penalties, so that criminal penalties imposed by one member state can be enforced in other EU countries.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is an important decision that should lead to the closure of legal loopholes that have allowed companies like those involved in the Ramsgate Walkway Disaster and the Heathrow Tunnel Collapse to walk away from fines imposed on them under British law.  In both cases companies from outside the UK were able to avoid financial penalties imposed on them in Britain because the fines were not enforceable across the EU."

"It's no consolation to the families of those who tragically lost their lives in the Port Ramsgate disaster but the least we can do as politicians is make sure that those responsible for health and safety negligence pay their dues.  We can't have big companies running rings around the law so this co-operation between EU Member States is essential

Note to Editors:
The proposals to introduce an EU system of mutual recognition of financial penalties must be approved by EU Government ministers before becoming law.

On the Ramsgate Walkway Disaster

In 1997, the collapse of a ferry passenger walkway, led to a fine of £1.7m under health and safety legislation.

At the time, it was the biggest ever fine imposed for a breach of health and safety laws against a single company.

Four companies shared the fine after six people died and seven were injured, when the walkway fell apart at Port Ramsgate, Kent in 1994.

The Swedish firm which built the walkway was fined £750,000, Lloyd's Register of Shipping, which certified it, was fined £500,000, the designers were fined £250,000 and Port Ramsgate had to pay £200,000.

The Swedish firm has yet to pay the fine and their share of the prosecution costs.

On the Heathrow Tunnel Collapse.

The previous highest fine for a single company was £1.2m, imposed on Balfour Beatty after three tunnels collapsed during the building of the Heathrow Express railway link in 1994.

The tunnel collapsed in the early hours of October 21, 1994. Fortunately no one was in the tunnel at the time.

The engineering disaster caused a huge crater to appear between the airport's two main runways and caused damage to car parks and buildings. It took months to clear up the damage.

Balfour Beatty pleaded guilty to failing to ensure the safety of both its employees and members of the public.  Austrian engineering firm Geoconsult, which was responsible for monitoring the progress of the Heathrow Express Link, was also fined £500,000.

The judge ordered both companies to pay a further £100,00 each in costs and described the accident as "One of the worst civil engineering disasters in the United Kingdom in the last quarter of a century."

The Austrian Firm Geoconsult has yet to pay the fines due.

21 January 2002

Euro MP calls for better protection for consumers on package holidays

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has given her backing to a report tabled in the recent (16 Jan) European Parliament session in Strasbourg, which puts pressure on the European Commission to bring forward tougher legislation on package holidays.

The report demands tougher rules on cancellations, new measures to protect consumers buying cross border travel via the internet and a review of existing minimum information standards.  It also wants tighter rules on single person supplements, better information for consumers of circumstances that might impact upon the enjoyment of their holiday and better information on access for disabled consumers.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "We've called for tough new measures to protect consumers on package holidays.  People work hard all year round and deserve proper treatment when they book a holiday in their favourite European sunspot.  They need to be protected from whatever rackets, scams or bad luck come their way."

"You only have to pick up a paper or watch TV to know that having the 'holiday from hell' is not an isolated experience.  Clearly there are inadequacies in the law that need rectifying urgently if consumers are to be sure of getting a fair deal.  If things do go wrong then holiday makers need to know how to go about claiming compensation."

"I'm particularly keen to see tighter rules on single person supplements, which penalise single parents and older people.  Also booking via the Internet throws up consumer protection issues that need clarifying."

"Package travel operators have got to take their responsibilities seriously and the EU can do a lot to ensure that happens.  Since our country has more people going abroad on package holidays than any other country in the EU, closing gaps or loopholes in the law can only benefit local residents."

Note to Editors:
The existing EU Directive on Package Travel which came into force across the EU in 1993 includes minimum standards for information provided to the consumer, formal requirements for package travel contracts, compulsory rules applicable to the contractual obligations and protection for consumers in the case of the package tour organiser's liability.

The European Parliament's report is not legally binding, but puts further pressure on the European Commission to revise existing EU Package Travel legislation, which is already under review.

9 July 2002

Euro MP backs campaign to fight stress at work

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is backing a Europe-wide campaign to fight stress at work that was launched at the European Parliament in Strasbourg last week.

The EU's "Working on Stress" campaign is designed to raise awareness of the causes of stress at work.  The campaign wants more-positive attitudes towards stress among staff and employers - better-defined roles at work, greater control for individuals and better communication which it is claimed would all help improve job satisfaction and therefore the quality of work.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Stress is a real killer, not just for high-flying executives but just as much for those with monotonous, poorly paid jobs.  Of particular concern is the fact that women are more likely to be affected than men.  Everyone in the workplace needs to be made much more aware of the signs and causes of stress."

"This seems to be a growing problem with an estimated 41 million workers across the fifteen EU Member States affected by occupational stress.  It's thought that at least half of all working days lost in the EU can be attributed to stress and, in the UK alone, five million days a year are thought to be wasted because of it."

"Work related stress is a real human tragedy but it also has big economic consequences as well.  I hope our campaign can help to get people better informed and encourage better working practices that will lead to stress at work being sidelined for good." 

3 June 2002

Euro MP wants to stop printers "scam"

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, has backed moves by the EU to investigate allegations of anti-competitive practices with computer printer ink cartridges.

Mrs McNally said, "This investigation is long overdue as consumers have been complaining for some time that they get sold supposedly cut-price printers with their computer deal only to find that the replacement cartridges work out very expensive.  Constituents tell me it's a scam."

"It's claimed that in this way printer manufacturers are making money hand over fist.  People have little choice but to buy own brand cartridges due to housings being designed in such a way that a cheaper, generic product won't fit."

 "As far as I'm concerned the EU has to be first and foremost about getting a fair deal for the consumer.  If these allegations are borne out then the European Commission must act to stop this practice."

24 April 2002

Euro MP backs shake-up for football TV rights

Speaking after a recent hearing of the EU's Competition Authority, Labour Euro MP for the region, Mrs Eryl McNally, said she backs reform of the bidding system related to football broadcasting.  The Authority has been taking evidence from interested parties and is looking to make a ruling on the legality of the current system of marketing TV rights before the summer.

Eryl, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "I want to see fairness in the system so that the big clubs get a decent reward but also allowing the money to filter down to the smallest clubs.  Without this, poorer clubs will wither and people's choice to support their local side will disappear.  We'll also be denied much of the home-grown talent that starts in the lower divisions."

"I realise that the current system of central bidding has some merits but it needs modifying to ensure fairer competition between broadcasters and to ensure the health of all clubs big and small.  Huge TV rights packages allocated to single bidders can't be good for the game or for TV viewers."  
 

14 March 2002

Euro MP welcomes new rules on food supplements

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, supported the successful vote in the recent Strasbourg session (Wednesday 13 March) of the European Parliament to bring in new rules on food supplements.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Food supplements are a fast-growing and very important part of many people's diet for healthy living.  However, it's important that what they're taking is in fact safe and good for their wellbeing."

"This directive will ensure that all these products are registered and checked out for safety at high dosages.  Despite some scare mongering on the issue there was overwhelming support for the proposals.  This means that we can have the same information we ask of all other foods and medicines."

"My Labour colleagues and others in the Socialist Group moved a successful amendment that provides for a 36 month transition to enable all supplement producers to register for the positive list of approved supplements.  This will give the small producers the time they need."

"This is another good news story from the EU.  With a safer regime on food supplements it's good for consumers, and we may well see more people using and benefiting from things like vitamin and mineral supplements.  It's also good for industry as many of these products are produced by UK based manufacturers."  
 
 

28 February 2002

Euro MP says UK car price 'block' must go

Commenting on the recently released (25 Feb) car price survey, local Labour Euro MP, Mrs. Eryl McNally, says this still shows consumers in the UK paying far more for their cars than buyers in other EU countries.  She has repeated her call for the car pricing system regulated by the EU to be dismantled.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, added, " It's simply unfair for British consumers to be penalised in this way.  The current pricing regime inflates car prices and stifles healthy competition."

"The EU is meant to be about a single market, one in which competition drives down prices and benefits the consumer.  For over twenty years this just hasn't been happening on car prices."

"My Labour and Socialist Group colleagues in the European Parliament are committed to getting the so called ' car block exemption' removed.  This will give British consumers a fair deal and can't come soon enough for me.  
 

18 February 2002

"Metric measure predates EU membership," says Euro MP

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs. Eryl McNally, has welcomed the news that the High Court has thrown out the case brought by market traders seeking a loophole in the law to avoid using metric measures.

Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator on industry matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "British Governments of all persuasions have supported the transition to metric since the 1960s.  The decision to go metric was not foisted upon us by some unaccountable body but was taken independently by our own government."

"This took place years before we even joined the EU.  Our government and democratically elected British MEPs agreed to insist on the use of metric measure but have negotiated a ten-year changeover period that lasts until the end of 2009.

"Sadly these traders are out of step with the modern world, but when you hear their spokesman he sounds more like a politician.  There's no doubt in my mind that this issue has been stirred up by anti-European Conservatives and their friends in the UKIP.

"The metric system is easy to use and is what we find on our travels across mainland Europe and elsewhere, and is good for international trade."

"Changing from pounds and ounces has gone pretty smoothly so far, and for most people buying in metric measures is not an issue.  For several years to come we shall have dual labelling in metric and imperial measure both for loose and pre packed goods so shoppers shouldn't have a problem with the transition."  

Note to Editors:

1. Britain has been going metric for over 100 years

Metrication has been the consistent aim of the British Government of all complexions since the last century.  The UK first announced its intention to go metric following a Select Committee Report in 1862.

2. Metric has not been foisted on the UK by the EU

The UK Government (Lab) decided to go metric in 1965, before Britain joined the EU.

"In 1965 the then Government announced their support to encourage the adoption of metric units as the primary system for weights and measures in the United Kingdom.  That was a decision taken for purely domestic reasons, in response to urging by the CBI and others, it had nothing to do then with possible membership of the European Community."  Francis Maude MP

Excerpts from the 1989 House of Commons Debate (European Community, Weights and Measures, 11 April 1989).

3. Why? Because the rest of the world was going metric

By 1965, when the UK Government first decided to introduce legislation to move to the metric system, most European countries had gone metric.  America was intending to go metric, as were all the other major Commonwealth countries.

Europe: Most European countries adopted the metric system in the second half of 19th century.  France went metric in 1842, Germany went metric in 1880.  Russia went metric after the Russian revolution.  European countries adopted the metric system - which was devised by the French in the late 1700's - because it was popular and easy to use.

America: America started to go metric in early 1970s.  US legislation "The Fair Packaging and Labelling Act" requires that products are labelled in US imperial and metric measurements.  The dual marking requirement is without time limit.  When the UK negotiated a 10 year extension for dual marking in the EU (until 2010), the US agreed that it would seek to introduce a change to a metric-only system, before the expiry of the ten year period agreed in the EU.

Commonwealth: The other major Commonwealth countries including, Australia, Canada, India, Pakistan and St Africa have gone metric.  They started after UK and finished before us.

4. The Tories support the metric martyr

The Tories change their views on metrication depending on whether they are in opposition or government.

In 1972, when joining the EC, the UK, under a Conservative Government, gave a commitment to go metric.

In the 1970's, while in opposition, the Conservatives consistently spoke out against metrication.

In Government again, 1979 -1997, the Conservatives agreed the two key EC Directives - Directive 80/181/EEC and Directive 89/617/EC - which phased out the use of imperial units in the UK.  These Directives are at the heart of the metric martyr case.  (Directive 89/617/EC set the final dates for the introduction of metric measurements for pre packed (1995) and loose goods (2000)).  Douglas Hurd MP, Linda Chalker MP and Francis Maude MP were present in the EU Council when the 1989 Directive was approved.

Now in opposition, the Conservatives oppose metrication again, saying they will "revisit" the metric issue when in Government - and fight for an "opt out" for loose goods. (Times 23/6/2000)

5. But the Tories and UKIP had their chance to fight for an "opt out" last year and they didn't do it.

Under pressure from the UK, EC Directive 80/181/EC was amended last year to extend the period for dual labelling (for loose and pre packed goods) for metric and imperial until Dec 31st 2009.

When the decision was approved by the European Parliament in 1999, neither the Tory nor UKIP MEPs tried to introduce a permanent "opt out" for loose goods - to cover traders like the metric martyr.

6.  The UK has gone metric

Since the 1980's, most packed goods - packs of washing powder, pots of coffee, packets of sugar etc - sold in high street stores or supermarkets, have been marked in metric only.  Some still have dual marking but this is the exception rather than the norm.

Petrol has been metric since the mid 1980s "price per litre" and consumers are not bothered.

Pre-packed goods went metric in December 1995 - this mainly applies to pre-packed fresh food i.e. meat, fish etc. where the size of the individual piece of food etc. will vary from pack to pack.   The EU rules allow for dual marking for pre-packed goods until 2010 and consumers have adjusted to the change very easily.

Problems seem to have arisen when goods sold loose went metric in January 2000.  Dual marking is also allowed until 2010 to help with the transition.  Despite some public concern about the change over, the transition for loose goods is almost complete too,

4 out of 5 weighing machines in the UK have gone metric (or have dual weights showing).

Only 1 in 5 weighing machines is still imperial - mainly because of legal uncertainty about the change over.   We would expect the remaining traders to change over rapidly once the validity of the UK metric legislation metric legislation is reaffirmed.

7. This case is being taken on a technicality.

The Metric Martyr case is being taken on a technicality - on the grounds that the UK regulations are invalid as they were introduced as secondary rather than primary legislation.  If the Court had upheld the trader's case on a technicality the Government could simply put the relevant legislation through again.

It will be up to the Government of the day to decide whether a further period of dual marking is needed after 2010.

8 February 2002

Euro MP backs clampdown on tired lorry drivers

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent European Parliament session (Tuesday 5 Feb) to close one of the last remaining gaps in the working time framework laid down in 1993 by setting new working hour limits for long distance bus and lorry drivers.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This should bring to an end tired bus and lorry drivers going through the night on long-haul journeys and can only make our roads safer.  The new law will give them the right to a 48 hour working week and a new deal on night work and break times."

"The current situation in which drivers may do in excess of 80 hours per week is patently unsafe not only for themselves but also the travelling public.  Excessive driving times can lead to fatigue and accidents."

"The new rules will still enable drivers to cover considerable distances.  I'm first and foremost backing what is an important safety measure but am confident this shouldn't stop local haulage and coach businesses being competitive."

Note to editors:
The key provisions of this new legislation on working time in the road transport sector are as follows:

48 hour week, averaged over six months
A ten hour limit on night driving
A half-hour break after six hours and a forty five-minute break after nine hours.  These breaks can be broken down in to more frequent shorter stops.
A wide definition of working time which includes loading, unloading, admin, route planning etc. - as opposed to just driving time.
Consignors, who send drivers out on the road, must ensure that additional hours are not imposed on drivers, further down the line.

6 February 2002

Euro MP welcomes new car deal for consumers

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed yesterday's (Tuesday 5 Feb) announcement by the European Commission on the so-called 'car block exemption'.  It has said it intends to prepare legislation to allow for multi-brand dealerships, servicing of all brands by authorised independent repairers and the sourcing of spare parts direct from producers.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is excellent news for British car buyers.  For over twenty years carmakers have escaped the kind of competition which drives down prices and delivers a better deal for consumers.  The proposed new directive should lead to more choice for car buyers and cheaper prices."

"The Commission has considered the views of a wide range of interested parties including the very powerful car manufacturing lobby.  The proposals are clearly on the side of the European consumer.  This can only be good for local car owners."

"The EU is meant to be about creating a single market that generates fair competition and gives consumers reasonably priced goods.  These proposals take us firmly in that direction." 
 
 

1 February 2002

Euro MP hopes for cheaper cars

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is keenly awaiting the publication next Tuesday (5 Feb) of a European Commission report that reviews the so-called 'car block exemption' that keeps car prices artificially high in this country.  She wants a radical overhaul of the existing system so that British car buyers get just as good a deal as anywhere else in the EU.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "For over twenty years carmakers have escaped the kind of competition which drives down prices and delivers a better deal for consumers.  They simply can no longer justify this iniquitous situation that inflates car prices and stifles healthy competition.

"The EU is meant to be about creating a single market that generates fair competition and gives consumers reasonably priced goods.  I hope that the Commission will be recommending changes that give a fair deal to British car buyers." 
 

28 January 2002

Euro MP backs fines clamp down

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has backed moves to close legal loopholes that allow foreign companies to get away with paying fines.  She voted in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg for plans to introduce an EU system of mutual recognition of financial penalties, so that criminal penalties imposed by one member state can be enforced in other EU countries.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is an important decision that should lead to the closure of legal loopholes that have allowed companies like those involved in the Ramsgate Walkway Disaster and the Heathrow Tunnel Collapse to walk away from fines imposed on them under British law.  In both cases companies from outside the UK were able to avoid financial penalties imposed on them in Britain because the fines were not enforceable across the EU."

"It's no consolation to the families of those who tragically lost their lives in the Port Ramsgate disaster but the least we can do as politicians is make sure that those responsible for health and safety negligence pay their dues.  We can't have big companies running rings around the law so this co-operation between EU Member States is essential

Note to Editors:
The proposals to introduce an EU system of mutual recognition of financial penalties must be approved by EU Government ministers before becoming law.

On the Ramsgate Walkway Disaster

In 1997, the collapse of a ferry passenger walkway, led to a fine of £1.7m under health and safety legislation.

At the time, it was the biggest ever fine imposed for a breach of health and safety laws against a single company.

Four companies shared the fine after six people died and seven were injured, when the walkway fell apart at Port Ramsgate, Kent in 1994.

The Swedish firm which built the walkway was fined £750,000, Lloyd's Register of Shipping, which certified it, was fined £500,000, the designers were fined £250,000 and Port Ramsgate had to pay £200,000.

The Swedish firm has yet to pay the fine and their share of the prosecution costs.

On the Heathrow Tunnel Collapse.

The previous highest fine for a single company was £1.2m, imposed on Balfour Beatty after three tunnels collapsed during the building of the Heathrow Express railway link in 1994.

The tunnel collapsed in the early hours of October 21, 1994. Fortunately no one was in the tunnel at the time.

The engineering disaster caused a huge crater to appear between the airport's two main runways and caused damage to car parks and buildings. It took months to clear up the damage.

Balfour Beatty pleaded guilty to failing to ensure the safety of both its employees and members of the public.  Austrian engineering firm Geoconsult, which was responsible for monitoring the progress of the Heathrow Express Link, was also fined £500,000.

The judge ordered both companies to pay a further £100,00 each in costs and described the accident as "One of the worst civil engineering disasters in the United Kingdom in the last quarter of a century."

The Austrian Firm Geoconsult has yet to pay the fines due.

21 January 2002

Euro MP calls for better protection for consumers on package holidays

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has given her backing to a report tabled in the recent (16 Jan) European Parliament session in Strasbourg, which puts pressure on the European Commission to bring forward tougher legislation on package holidays.

The report demands tougher rules on cancellations, new measures to protect consumers buying cross border travel via the internet and a review of existing minimum information standards.  It also wants tighter rules on single person supplements, better information for consumers of circumstances that might impact upon the enjoyment of their holiday and better information on access for disabled consumers.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "We've called for tough new measures to protect consumers on package holidays.  People work hard all year round and deserve proper treatment when they book a holiday in their favourite European sunspot.  They need to be protected from whatever rackets, scams or bad luck come their way."

"You only have to pick up a paper or watch TV to know that having the 'holiday from hell' is not an isolated experience.  Clearly there are inadequacies in the law that need rectifying urgently if consumers are to be sure of getting a fair deal.  If things do go wrong then holiday makers need to know how to go about claiming compensation."

"I'm particularly keen to see tighter rules on single person supplements, which penalise single parents and older people.  Also booking via the Internet throws up consumer protection issues that need clarifying."

"Package travel operators have got to take their responsibilities seriously and the EU can do a lot to ensure that happens.  Since our country has more people going abroad on package holidays than any other country in the EU, closing gaps or loopholes in the law can only benefit local residents."

Note to Editors:
The existing EU Directive on Package Travel which came into force across the EU in 1993 includes minimum standards for information provided to the consumer, formal requirements for package travel contracts, compulsory rules applicable to the contractual obligations and protection for consumers in the case of the package tour organiser's liability.

The European Parliament's report is not legally binding, but puts further pressure on the European Commission to revise existing EU Package Travel legislation, which is already under review.

18 December 2001

Euro MP votes for cheaper phone calls

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent (12 December) European Parliament session in Strasbourg for a package of measures to modernise and simplify telecommunications regulations.  The new legislation will give the European Commission powers to oversee national regulatory regimes.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "It wasn't easy for the governments of the Member States to give up their powers but it makes sense if we are to achieve a true single market, providing a level playing field in Europe for telecom operators and consumers."

Mrs McNally is the co-ordinator on trade matters for the Parliamentary Socialist Group and added, "These new directives should help to broaden competition and give consumers more choice, giving them higher quality services and cheaper bills."

20 November 2001

Euro MP speaks up for shoppers

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, says that today's ruling by the European Court of Justice on the sale of designer jeans just doesn't make sense and goes against consumers' interests.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament and is the Parliamentary Socialist Group spokesperson on trade matters, said, "I support Tesco's efforts to be allowed to sell designer jeans at the lowest price possible so that shoppers can get the best deal going.  This ruling, based on EU trademark legislation, doesn't make sense and only suggests that the law needs changing."

"Jeans and other goods are being fairly bought in markets outside the EU but aren't allowed to be sold at a discount.  This just protects multinational companies and keeps the retail price artificially high, and it's consumers that foot the bill.

"The whole idea of a common or single market is to encourage competition and keep down prices.  Fancy designer labels shouldn't mean fancy prices if stores like Tesco can sell cheaper."

"I'll be doing all I can to get a change in the law to give shoppers their rights."  
 

9 October 2001

EU clampdown on noise

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg to introduce tough new standards to clampdown on noise from planes, trains, buses and cars.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Transport is one of the biggest generators of unreasonable noise, very often a danger to public health.  People should be able to get on and live their lives in peace without the intrusion of noisy planes, trains or other vehicles.

"The legislation will set strict deadlines for the measures to come into force and will provide for the drawing up of EU wide “noise maps” to identify the hotspots.  The latter will be identified and local authorities will be able to take action to turn down the volume."

"Dealing with unreasonable noise levels is a very complex matter.  We need to set EU-wide standards to crack down on noise from planes and similar concerted action to deal with the roar of car engines."

Note to Editors:

The framework proposals must be approved by EU Government Ministers before coming into force.  But Euro MPs have full co-legislative powers over the proposals.  Ultimately, they can throw the whole package out if they are not satisfied with the details eg. deadlines etc. set in the final text.

8 October 2001

Euro MP backs Railtrack wind-up
Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the government's decision to give the green light to putting Railtrack into liquidation. 

Mrs McNally represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament and is the Co-ordinator for the Parliamentary Socialist group on the Industry and External Trade Committee.

She said, "The sell off of the railway infrastructure by the Conservative government was one of the most glaring errors in the history of public administration.  The company's mismanagement has had serious and grave consequences."

"Stephen Byers, Secretary of State for Transport, has made the right decision in replacing the firm with a not-for-profit trust which will re-invest in the rail network any revenues generated.  I hope we will never again let the pursuit of private profit overcome public safety.  This new approach should ensure that the train network delivers for all its customers."  

13 August 2001

Euro MP welcomes quieter seaside holidays

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the final session of the European Parliament before the summer recess to bring in tough new laws to clamp down on noisy speedboats and jet skis.
Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Our beautiful east coast and rivers like the Ouse can look forward to seeing an end to roaring speedboats and jet skis because the standards we're setting will require much quieter engines."
The new legislation also sets standards to reduce oil and other polluting emissions from pleasure boats.  Manufacturers will have until January 2006 to comply with the new regulations.
Mrs McNally added, "A lot of nonsense is talked about EU legislation and this just represents yet more good news for ordinary people.  Holidaymakers and those out for a quiet Sunday afternoon by the water can look forward to a more peaceful time and a cleaner environment."
"We're not against people enjoying their pleasure craft but they've gradually been getting louder, and we're looking to get the balance right.  For example, existing boats will not be affected by the new legislation but they will be subject to an annual test.  We're also trying to ensure that older boats like canal boats are exempt." END

Note to Editors:
The new legislation expands the scope of an EU Directive, introduced in 1994, to include sound and exhaust emission restrictions on a wide range of pleasure boats.
Boat manufacturers would have to comply with the new regulations by 1 January 2006.
Euro MPs have fought a battle to ensure that the new legislation will not affect existing pleasure boats on the market - except they will have to pass an annual MOT to ensure they meet the standards they were designed to comply with.
Euro MPs are also fighting to introduce special exemptions for older boats - like canal boats - which could not comply with the new standards.
The new legislation must be confirmed by the full Parliament and approved by EU Governments before coming into force.

16 July 2001

Euro MP wants answers on mobile phones "rip off"

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, says that way back last May she called on EU Commissioners to investigate mobile telephone companies in respect of their so-called international roaming.  Only in the last few days investigators looking for evidence of price fixing raided mobile phone companies across Europe.
Mrs McNally, who leads the Parliamentary Socialist Group on the committee dealing with industry matters, said, "As an MEP I'm involved in a lot on international travel, not just between the UK and Brussels or Strasbourg, but further afield as well.  What has struck me wherever I've gone has been the expensive cost of using one's mobile phone to get in touch with other countries and I'm furious at what seems to be a rip off.  It's also annoying to have to pay so much to receive calls abroad, quite often wrong numbers."
"I hope the investigations both here and in other EU countries will ensure that the mobile phone industry operates a truly open market and that consumers get value for money."

29 March 2001

Fair play on music piracy

Local Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, joined her Labour Party colleagues in a recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg to vote on copyright across the EU.  As a result music lovers and film fans will be able to continue making copies of their favourite songs or movies.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "There was very active lobbying from all sides on this issue but I think the line we took produced a sensible outcome, balancing the protection of artistes' rights against fair access for the public."

"Britain is a world leader in the creative industries, generating many jobs and putting money into the local economy so I'm keen to support them.  I believe they have been given the protection against Internet piracy that they need to compete in the digital world." 

Note to Editors:

Key points in the legislative proposal:

*The Directive maintains the balance between fair use and protecting artists and performers rights.
*Important exceptions have been retained for the UK for universities, schools, libraries and groups with disabilities. These organisations can continue to benefit from copyright exceptions, where no significant economic damage occurs.
* The UK’s special exception for “time-shift” copying has also been retained allowing users to video record programmes to watch at a time and place at their convenience.
* Right holders enjoy protection for copyright in the Directive through technical protection measures and the opinion to pursue injunctions through national courts. This is important to the UK's creative industries, which contribute £60 billion exports, and directly and indirectly employs £1.4 million people.
* A range of amendments passed in Committee both potentially damaging to right holders and consumers were defeated in the plenary vote.
* The Directive also includes a provision for review to ensure that legislation is not prohibiting private use, nor resulting in copyright abuse for right holders.
* A Contact Committee will be established to monitor the impact of the legislation for all interested parties. (This was a UK Government idea.)

17 January 2001
Euro MP backs Tesco on jeans' price-cutting

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has come out in favour of Tesco's case in the European Court of Justice, which deals with legal matter concerning the EU.  She is backing their call to allow them to cut the retail price on legally imported goods, in this case Levi jeans.

Mrs McNally says, "As a Member of the European Parliament I believe I have to speak up when my constituents in the East of England region are getting a raw deal because of EU regulations.  It's just plain silly to keep cheap branded goods out of discount stores, even though they have been fairly bought in markets outside the EU".

"The single market of the EU should be about competitiveness and low prices - which gives consumers the best deal - but if manufacturers can vary the price of branded goods it keeps prices artificially high. "

"I'm hoping the European Court of Justice will make a ruling to force open the market and give local consumers the fair deal they deserve."  
 

18 December 2000

In the recent Strasbourg European Parliament session local Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, joined her Labour colleagues to throw out liberalisation of EU postal services that could have spelt disaster for rural areas. 

The European Commission had presented plans to open the EU postal market to competition but these have now been thrown out. Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England region, said "The Commission's plans were quite wide-ranging but in particular they could have tolled the death knell for postal services in rural areas many of which I serve. They wanted to introduce competition for letters weighing more than 50 grams but his could have meant private firms refusing to deliver these to outlying areas, so we've reserved the market for letters weighing less than 150 grams for national post monopolies. "As a Labour MEP I simply was not willing to countenance anything less, as the provision of a universal service at an affordable price is fundamental to help keeping life going in the countryside." The European Commission's proposals would have put hundreds of British sub-post offices at risk, led to the introduction of zonal pricing - where postal services cost far more in remote areas then cities - and have ended the 'one delivery, one collection, each day' service which is currently guaranteed throughout the UK. "When the Tories tried to privatise the post service I fought it all along, so there was no way I was going to let the European Commission do it through the back door. My Labour colleagues and I were not prepared to abandon our rural areas and to see our sub post offices disappear nor were we prepared to see postal services throughout the UK fall to an unacceptable level. The Tories, of course, support privatising the UK postal services so, not surprisingly, they supported the 50 gram proposal. They see this as an opportunity to privatise the Post Office by the back door, but so much for their concern for the countryside." 

Note to Editors:

Postal Services: The European Commission Proposal In May 2000, the European Commission published plans to open up the EU postal market to further competition. The proposals set out to: Introduce competition for letters weighing more than 50 grams Liberalise direct (advertising and business) mail deliveries and out-going cross border mail (international mail going to another EU country) The cumulative effect would be to open up 27% of the EU's postal market to competition by 2003. By far the biggest impact would come from the reduction of the letter monopoly to 50 grams (16%) and direct mail (8%). Universal Service Postal service operators argue they must be protected in order to ensure that they can fulfil an essential public duty - guaranteeing customers a universal standard of service at a single price, regardless of where they live. This so-called Universal Service Obligation (USO) is accepted by almost everyone in the industry as a legitimate concern. The disagreements are over how much of a monopoly is required to finance it, and in which areas. The Alternatives Britain's Post Office has argued for a continued monopoly below 150 grams. Were the letter monopoly to be reduced to 100 grams, the directive would open 20% of incumbents' revenues to competition; At 150 grams, the equivalent figure is 17%. Incumbents would not stand to lose 17% of their revenues, rather they would have to defend this portion against competitors. The current situation Under a 1997 EU Directive, national postal operators have a monopoly over letter deliveries up to a weight of 350g - leaving only 3 per cent of the letters' market open to competition. EU parcel deliveries and express services have already been liberalised, but some countries, such as Sweden and the Netherlands, have also opened their letter markets to competition. What next? The EU Post Directive has to be approved by EU Member State Governments (possibly in December 2000) before coming into force. The European Parliament has full co-legislative powers in drafting and approving this legislation - ultimately it can block or reject the new law if it is not satisfied with the content of the final text. 

17 November 2000

Euro MP vote saves charity shops and car boot sales

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg to exclude charity shops and car boot sales from EU safety rules for products sold by them, thus preserving a 'very British institution'.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said "I fully agree with ensuring product safety but these regulations, if left unamended, would have made intolerable demands on charity shops, car boot sales and second hand shops and would have rendered them unable to sell many items."

The EU Product Safety Directive requires retailers to guarantee a wide range of safety tests having been carried out on products. Given the nature of charity shops, where most goods have been donated, no such safety guarantees could be given. As long as the seller warns any potential purchaser that no safety guarantees are given the sale will be legal.

Eryl added " I'm pleased to say that my Labour MEP colleagues and I were given cross party support by other British members. Buying goods at car boot sales and the like form part of a very British institution and common sense has prevailed on this matter. Local people will be free to continue buying second hand goods but they must be aware that no safety guarantees are given.

15 September 2000

Mrs Eryl McNally, Labour Euro MP for the East of England region, says the petrol shortage brought about by blockades and the reluctance of contract drivers to distribute fuel has only served to bring home the urgent need to look for cheaper but at the same time less environmentally damaging fuels. She has praised one of the region's carmakers - Vauxhall - for their hybrid gas/petrol cars.

Mrs McNally said, "People can't expect the government to shift its policy on fuel every time world market prices change. What we need is a dramatic shift in energy policy through which much less petrol is consumed so we are able to protect the ozone layer. A look along the region's coastline shows the devastating effect of the rapid erosion that has been taking place due to climate change.

In the next session of the European Parliament I shall be quizzing the European Commissioner for energy, Ms Palacio, about the petrol crisis in the UK. In particular I shall be asking what steps she is taking to ensure that emergency petrol stocks are maintained at an appropriate level and whether these blockades have been illegal hindrances to free trade. In addition I shall seeking her views on what can be done to promote alternatives to petrol and what scope there is for harmonisation of tax on petroleum products across the EU.

The attempt by oil companies to raise prices within hours of the blockades being removed was a stark reminder of their powerful position and of the huge profits they've been making as the world oil price has gradually increased over the last year or so. Alternatives to petrol can't come too soon and I congratulate car companies like Vauxhall on their work including hybrid gas/petrol cars. People who are driving them must have been mighty pleased in the last few days apart from the fact that their motoring costs are always so much lower and they're more environmentally friendly." 

27 March 2000

Local Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the introduction of an EU-wide disabled car drivers’ badge scheme. A new European model ‘blue badge’ from the beginning of April is replacing the old ‘orange badge’. This will happen gradually as badges come up for renewal or when applications are made.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament said, "This is good news for those disabled citizens who drive across the channel as the new blue badge will be more easily recognisable throughout the whole of the European Union. With one common badge it will mean less confusion for those enforcing parking restrictions and make life easier for disabled drivers when visiting other Member States."

"My UK Labour colleagues and I have given our full support to this initiative in the Parliament and we are sure it will give disabled drivers more confidence to travel abroad, knowing that they can benefit from local parking concessions wherever they go in the EU without getting a penalty ticket. The eligibility criteria and concessions provided by the parking scheme haven’t changed but just the design and colour of the badge. For local people this is more good news to come from the European Parliament."

The Eastern Region of England

22nd November 2002

Labour has great team for the next election says retiring MEP

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who is to step down in June 2004 as member for the East of England Region in the European Parliament, says Labour has a great team of candidates in place for the next Euro elections.

The list of candidates, drawn up following an exhaustive process involving all Labour Party members, will be confirmed in due course.  Along with a current MEP the others selected come from a wide range of public and private sector occupations.  They all have considerable experience of local community activity.

Commenting on the recently published list, Mrs McNally said, "My current MEP colleague, Richard Howitt, has been extremely hard working in the Parliament and in our constituency.  He is joined on Labour's list for the 2004 Euro elections by a very able group of people who have all been very active in their local communities."

"I'm particularly pleased to see that a former MEP colleague, Clive Needle, who represented Norfolk between 1994 and 1999 is on our list, as he will bring incredible experience with him." 

"Although unsuccessful in the 1999 Euro election it's very good to see selected two women colleagues who have worked very hard on European issues in the interim.  Beth Kelly and Ruth Bagnall bring with them tremendous commitment to the European ideal and they would make excellent Euro MPs.  They are joined on the list by two other very able women, Sandy Griffiths and Valerie Liddiard, which is very good as we need more women in the European Parliament"

"The other two Labour colleagues listed are Nigel Gardner, with whom I worked in the European Parliament, and Mark Wells, who recently gave a businessman's perspective on EU research funding at a conference I organised."

  "All in all Labour has a great team in place to fight the next Euro elections in June 2004.  In the meantime I shall be working flat out to make sure my constituents are properly represented in the Parliament and be looking to make full use of the time available to effect laws that will enhance the quality of life of people living in the East of England."  

NOTE TO EDITORS: 

A copy of the press release from the East of England Labour Party is attached.  This gives brief biographical details of the candidates.

5 November 2002

LETTER TO THE EDITOR (Rail  travel)

Sir

I have been approached by the Rail Passenger Committee for Eastern England to ascertain my views on early morning and late night train services.  Although this is a not a 'European' issue I believe it is important that rail users and other members of the public know that such research is taking place.

 If any readers feel that there are problems with their early morning or late night train services I would be grateful if they could let me know and I will pass on their comments.  Readers can share their views on any significant problems whether because of absence of, or timing of, such services, be they during the week or on Saturdays or Sundays.

Yours truly

Mrs Eryl McNally, MEP

5 November 2002

Euro MP backs EU funding for local firm

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is supporting Bedford firm, Aircraft Research Association Ltd. (ARA), in seeking funding for its work from the European Union's Research Programme. Mrs McNally says that the firm should qualify as a small or medium sized enterprise (SME) and that this is where the EU is putting its emphasis for research funding.

Mrs McNally was a recent guest of Chief Executive, Brian Timmins, and toured ARA's Manton Lane site.

Commenting on her visit Mrs McNally said, "It's obvious that aircraft research is a crucial and high tech activity. Great expertise has been built up over the fifty years that ARA has been operating and this is complemented by a very highly skilled work force."

"ARA makes a major contribution to the economy of the Bedford area. It was particularly pleasing to meet a woman company director who is a qualified aero engineer. I wish more young women would take up scientific careers."

"The list of ARA's clients speaks for itself and includes all the main players in aircraft building, involving them in many major projects. Their wind tunnel testing facility is the leader in its field, and quickly delivered results are what manufacturers want."

Mrs McNally, who is a vice-president of the EU's Sky and Space Inter Group, said, "ARA is almost unique in the sense that it receives no government subsidy, unlike most of its European competitors. This is just the sort of company we should be encouraging to engage in collaborative ventures with larger partners and to be drawing down EU research funding assistance."

"I'm going to make sure that in all my contacts with European Commission officials they are made aware that it's vital for the big players to involve SME's like ARA. I'll also be speaking to British Ministers to further push the case for SME's."

"I've promised to arrange for Commission officials to speak to the Eastern Aerospace Alliance, of which ARA is a leading member, so that all the mechanisms of applying for EU research funding can be clearly outlined. ARA is well placed to benefit from this funding and I wish them every success in their efforts." 

2 September 2002

"Small firms hold key to regional prosperity", says Euro MP

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is organising a high level conference to explore how local small firms can benefit from EU funding.

Mrs McNally, who is the spokesperson on industry matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "Small firms are the key to regional prosperity, not the huge multi-nationals who are unlikely to bring their big factories here.  Much more realistic is the development of small firms that grow bigger, provided that they are sufficiently innovative and are based on state of the art technology."

"The EU is about to spend over £11 billion on research over the next four years, of which 15% will go to small firms."

Top experts from the European Commission will be joining Mrs McNally at a special conference in Hatfield on Friday 20 September to investigate mechanisms for ensuring maximum participation in this region.  Representatives of local small firms who have previous experience of Framework Programmes, or those who are interested in future participation, are being invited to attend the conference, details of which may be obtained by phoning 01908 314114 or click here to print out invitation and registration form.

Mrs McNally concluded, "£100s of millions come into the region from the EU's research budget but not enough goes to crucial small firms.  I hope that the conference will do a lot to redress the balance."  

14 May 2002

Euro MP raises crash with Parliament President

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, whose East of England constituency includes Potters Bar has written to the President of the European Parliament about the fatal crash.

Mrs McNally, said, "In these circumstances it's very difficult to know what to do or to say.  My condolences and sympathy go out to those who lost friends or loved ones and to those injured in this terrible accident.  I just felt that as an elected representative of the people of Potters Bar I should draw the attention of the Parliament to this tragic event."

"Several colleagues in the Parliament from across the political spectrum have expressed to me their great sadness at what happened at Potters Bar railway station." 

"As well as the usual great professionalism shown by the emergency services there were several cases of local people who risked their own safety to help the injured.  The town can be duly proud of those very brave and public spirited people."The text of Mrs McNally's letter is as follows: Dear President, I would be grateful if you would convey toe families, hospitals and emergency services our condolences and sympathy for the dreadful event which took place in Potters Bar in my Hertfordshire constituency last week. As you know, eight people lost their lives in an accident very close to the scene of another fatal train crash in Hatfield. Thank you in advance for anything you are able to do. Best wishes Eryl McNally MEP

Three counties group meets Germans at European Parliament

A group of over 55's from Beds, Herts and Cambs has just returned from a visit to the European Parliament in Strasbourg.  The trip was organised by Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament.

Mrs McNally, said, "This follows a talk I gave last year to some members of the German Social Democratic Party seniors' section in the town of Wuppertal in Nordrhein Westfalen.  They asked me to arrange for some of my constituents to meet them at the parliament in Strasbourg and I was very happy to oblige."

"We broke the ice by dining together and then the next day had a question and answer session with two German MEPs and myself.  Issues raised were very far ranging including the euro, pensions, concerns about the common agricultural policy when so many poor countries are lining up to join the EU and the sensitive matter of euthanasia."

"Participants from both countries told me how much they had appreciated the opportunity to meet and to find out how things are viewed by fellow Europeans from another EU Member State.  Several friendships were made and further one to one contacts seem likely."

The group had an official visit to the European Parliament buildings and sat in on a debate in which Mrs McNally spoke.  They were also given a short civic reception by the city council in its beautiful old town hall and found out about Strasbourg's history through a guided tour.  

Note to Editors:
For photos and quotes from participants local to your catchment area, please contact John Walden on 07899 908731.
 

27 March 2002

"Government R&D tax credits benefit region", says Euro MP

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the news that the government is to award tax credits to companies involved in research and development.

Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator on research matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "This is wonderful news not just for the nation as a whole but particularly for the many local companies that are involved in R&D.  Our region specialises in pharmaceuticals and aerospace and these industries could benefit greatly from this government initiative."

"I'm very pleased that the government has acknowledged the need for investment in R&D and has announced this incentive that will be in place from the start of the new tax year."

"The recent Barcelona summit of EU heads of government reiterated our aim to make Britain and other Member States knowledge based, high tech societies.  This approach is good news for our citizens as it will result in innovation and enterprise leading to more and better jobs."  
 

9 April 2001

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who lives in Abbots Langley, has met local residents at Hillside Hall over coffee and biscuits. Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England - including Hertfordshire - in the European Parliament, said, "I was pleased to talk to residents, some of whom are my near neighbours, about the ways in which the EU is improving their quality of life. At the same time this gave them the chance to raise issues with me." "Too often a false impression is given about the powers of the Parliament and the Commission in Brussels so I was able to explain just what it is that the EU deals with. I was also able to counter some of the silly myths that have been created by Euro sceptics. For example, I explained why fruit and veg importers as well as the European Commission want strict descriptions of products in order to maintain quality for consumers in Abbots Langley as well as everyone else in the fifteen Member States. "I provided a variety of information pamphlets to residents which included one of my favourites, entitled 'Straight Bananas? 175 anti-European myths exploded'. 

If any readers would like a copy of this click here to contact my office to request one.

19 February 2001

Euro MP praises local film industry

Following her recent visit to Film Link, Labour Euro MP Mrs Eryl McNally who lives in Abbots Langley, has nothing but praise for the achievements of the Leavesden based facilities company and current home to the Harry Potter film set.

Mrs McNally, who is the spokesperson on industry for the Parliamentary Socialist Group said, "What we've got on our doorstep here in Hertfordshire is truly very impressive.   Through Film Link over a third of all feature films shot in the UK in the last three years have taken place in Hertfordshire, delivering an estimated £100 million contribution to the local economy."

She added, "Due to the excellent skills and craftsmanship as well as the high technology associated with the industry in Hertfordshire the county has become the second biggest area for film making after Hollywood.  The Harry Potter set was very impressive and that film alone is creating 1,700 jobs and impacting positively on the local economy."

"The last time I visited the site helicopters were in production, so after the sad closure of that factory it's good to see such good work going on in this new industry.  As well as its production facilities and location finding service Film Link also provides a crucial education and training role for which I'm exploring the possibility of drawing down European funding."

"I'm also researching EU projects that might involve new digital technology and seeing how a European distribution network for e-cinema could come on stream to compete with the traditional US distributor chains."

"I know Film Link managers are keen to form a network of European Film Offices that would enable co-operation across European centres of film and TV/Media production for the provision of best practice, education, film locations, facilities crew etc. and I'll be using my good offices to support this.  In the UK I'll be contacting Stephen Byers, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, to promote Hertfordshire's very valuable film industry." 

30 October 2000

Letter to the Editor, The Watford Observer

Sir,

Being the only women MEP for this region, as well as a local resident, I was very pleased to attend the official opening of The Watford Women's Centre, which the Observer covered last week. What readers may not realise is that the training programmes provided there are wholly funded by the European Union. This is yet another example of how European funding is coming into this region, and just in Hertfordshire from the Social Fund alone this amounted to over £6m last year.

Too often little or no publicity is given to the beneficial aspects of our membership of the EU and I'm looking to see how projects such as the Women's Centre could have the European blue flag flown to acknowledge the source of funding.

As for the centre itself it is very impressive and builds on the excellent work done by the group over many years. Its town centre location in Charter Place makes it easily accessible and I encourage women of all ages to call in, where I know they will be made very welcome. Individual counselling is on offer there and the courses are wide-ranging, giving confidence and/or job skills to women, irrespective of their background or previous education. My congratulations go to all involved.

I would be very please to receive feedback on the way EU funds are used.  Click here for details on how to get in touch.

Yours sincerely

Mrs. Eryl McNally, MEP

13 October 2000

St John’s Innovation Centre today played host to a visit by Erkki Liikanen, European Commissioner for Enterprise and Information Society. He came as the guest of regional Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who is the European Parliamentary Socialist Group’s co-ordinator on the Industry Committee.

Mr Liikanen met fifty representatives of Cambridge based info tech industries, predominantly from the SME (small and medium enterprise) sector. He fielded a wide range of questions on topics ranging from the future of the Euro in Britain to the opening up of the ‘local loop’ to encourage competition in telecommunications."

Asked about the place of Britain in the information technology world, he said "The future is very bright for the UK as the entrepreneurial spirit is amongst the strongest in Europe. The Cambridge area is clearly taking a lead and its predominant innovative culture will be good for business."

Dr Harley Farmer, Managing Director of TecMark Ltd, attended the session and said, "It was apparent that the Commissioner had empathy with the problems faced by entrepreneurs and was happy to hear how he could improve the opportunities for small companies like my own."

Another member of the audience, Simon Anderson, Chairman of the Greater Cambridge Partnership, said, "I am delighted that Commissioner Liikanen has spent time in Cambridge to hear first hand some of the issues facing the Greater Cambridge area, particularly as he will be in Lyons next month when Cambridge receives an EU Award of Excellence for the setting up and development of innovative companies."

Managing Director of the St John’s Innovation Centre, Walter Herriott, said "We were delighted to meet the Commissioner and to express the concern of the business community generally about the effects of increased regulation on entrepreneurship. We are flattered that Mr Liikanen should choose to visit the Innovation Centre to learn about the continued development of the Cambridge phenomenon."

Note for Editors

St John’s Innovation Centre is an incubator centre for knowledge-based businesses. It provides accommodation and business support services to around fifty such companies. In addition it provides support services to a host of other businesses in the wider region.

12 July 2000

3 July 2000

Eryl McNally, Labour Euro MP for the East of England region, recently hosted a visit of constituents at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Participants also took the opportunity to visit other European institutions during their stay in Alsace.

Employment issues

29 November 2002

Euro MP backs temporary agency workers

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, took part in a successful vote in the recent (21 November) Strasbourg session of the European Parliament to approve new employment rights for temporary agency workers.  The draft directive provides better basic protection of such workers from the first day of their assignment as well as changes to the rules against discrimination between temporaries and in-house staff.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "It's very apparent that temporary agency workers are a very significant and increasing part of our workforce.  These workers are found in a wide range of jobs and it's only right that they are afforded minimum protection at work."

"I know that temporary agency work is vital to the economy of this area and to the workers who carry it out.  Drawing up new laws is often a balancing act but the key issue is how to provide greater protection for temporary agency workers.  This kind of work needs to be able to continue so regulations can't be too draconian and at the same time the interests of a user firm's main workforce mustn't be put at risk."

"I believe my parliamentary colleagues and I have got the balance right.  The new laws will allow agency work to flourish with some degree of security for those doing it while giving reasonable flexibility to firms.  It's a very positive move for all concerned."  

5th November 2002

Euro MP backs better protection for temporary agency workers

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed decisions taken by the European Parliament's Employment Committee on working conditions for temporary agency workers.  It proposes better basic protection of such workers from the first day of their assignment as well as changes to the rules against discrimination between temporaries and in-house staff.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "I know that in this area there are a lot of temporary agency workers and it's important that they get a fair deal at work.  The draft directive aims to improve agency workers’ basic statutory employment rights and social protection."

"My MEP colleagues disagreed with the recommendations of the civil servants - the European Commission - on discrimination on pay.  Euro MPs are pushing for agency workers' conditions while on assignment to be at least as good as those they would have had for comparable work if hired directly by the user firm."

"Where there are industrial disputes I much prefer to see them settled through negotiation, but I certainly would back the proposal that requires Member States to prevent the use of temporary agency workers for strike-breaking."

"I know that temporary agency work is vital to the economy of this area and to the workers who carry it out.  Drawing up new laws is often a balancing act but the key issue is how to provide greater protection for temporary agency workers.  This kind of work needs to be able to continue so regulations can't be too draconian and at the same time the interests of a user firm's main workforce mustn't be put at risk."

The European Parliament will have a full debate on the issue in its late November session in Strasbourg.  

11 February 2002

Euro MP votes for fair deal at the workplace

Mrs Eryl McNally, a Labour Euro MP for this area, voted in the recent European Parliament session (Tuesday 5 Feb) in Strasbourg to get a better deal for Britain's workforce.  The new law was passed and will mean that British companies with more than 50 employees will have to consult with workers before big decisions are taken.  It will be some time before the new rules are implemented.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This legislation is long overdue.  Wherever people work they should have the chance to be involved in the development of their organisation.  These new rules will mean that firms will have to provide information to their workers and arrange regular consultation with them on economic and strategic developments.  It's just not right that companies can announce closures and redundancies through the media."

"This will give workers a legal right to be told about their company's plans and to contribute their own ideas.  It's all about effective partnership in the workplace.  We learnt to our cost how workers can be sidelined when in this region Vauxhalls announced their closure plans.  This has happened in other areas as well.  Who's to say that some of these firms couldn't have been saved had the workforce been involved at an early stage?"

"My only regret is that there will be considerable delay before this law gets on the statute book.  I hope companies will take a lead and enter into the spirit of this legislation by immediately putting in place the necessary mechanisms for meaningful consultation.
 

Note to editors:
The EU's new information and consultation directive will force companies to consult workers on all significant decision ranging from restructuring to measures likely to lead to changes in work organisation or contractual relations.

The rules come into force in three years in most EU states, but in six years in the UK and Ireland.   The deal introduces new criteria to judge whether firms may withhold confidential, market-sensitive information. It also allows for sanctions in the event of non-compliance.

Across the EU, 97% of businesses will not be affected because they have under 50 employees, but half the total EU workforce is employed in the remaining 3% of firms. Plans for rules on worker information were first proposed in 1998 after the French carmaker Renault announced the closure of the Vilvoorde plant in Belgium without warning the workforce.

30 October 2001

Euro MP backs workers' rights

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg to bring in new rules forcing businesses to inform and consult their workers about company developments.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "It's just not on that workers should find out from the newspaper or a news bulletin that their jobs are to go.  These new rules will mean that for the first time employees throughout the EU will have a legal right to know what their company is up to and to have a say."

"In our own region the recent experience of Vauxhall workers is just one case of many where the provisions for worker consultation are sadly lacking.  This new legislation is a big step in the right direction for getting more positive partnerships in the workplace."

"It's a sad fact of life that in today's global economy restructuring and adaptation of companies will take place but with timely information and worker consultation this can be done more successfully.  Creating a partnership approach between management and workers should also enhance the adaptability and performance of employees, which can only be good for all concerned."

The plans are an attempt to create common rules as more companies in the EU set up operations across national borders.  Most companies around the European Union are already required by national law to consult their employees before making major changes that could affect them.  Some, like Britain and Ireland, have little specific legislation in this area at all.  

Energy, Research and the Environment

19 December 2002

Euro MP backs tough waste electrics law

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent (18 Dec) Strasbourg session of the European Parliament for tough new regulations on the disposal of electrical and electronic equipment. Final approval was given by MEPs to new EU-wide recycling laws that will rid our area of piles of discarded appliances, by passing responsibility on to local councils to collect and separate the waste.

As from 31 December 2006 local authorities will be forced to ensure that all electrical and electronic waste is separated from other household rubbish. Initially, they will be legally bound to collect a minimum of 4kg of electrical waste per person each year. The government will have to provide collection points and manufacturers will have to bear the cost of recycling and re-using the goods they make under the so-called Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive. Consumers will be able to return equipment at the end of its life free of charge.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is excellent news for consumers and householders. Our decision in the Parliament will bring into force the most extensive recycling scheme that Europe has ever seen. Just dumping electrical equipment into landfill will no longer be allowed."

"It's also quite proper that the electrical manufacturing giants play their part by taking back and dismantling what they make, and that they pay for recycling what they create."

"Consumers must take some responsibility as well to stem the rising tide of waste from electronic goods. Handing in worn out equipment will be made easy for them by free retailer take-back schemes and public collection points near local shops and town centres."

"This will require a new way of thinking on the part of everyone but it's been achieved with the recycling of paper and glass so shouldn't be too difficult to do. The alternatives don't bear considering if we are to protect our fragile environment." 

The WEEE Directive – Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment

The new rules will:

• Allow consumers and retailers to take-back waste electric and electronic goods free of charge.

• Make manufacturers of electrical and electronic goods foot the bill. Manufacturers will finance the collection, treatment, recovery and environmentally sound disposal of the products they produce.

• Oblige local authorities to ensure that all electrical and electronic waste is separated from other household rubbish from December 31 2006.

What goods are covered?

A wide range of electrical and electronic equipment including, TVs videos, radios, computers, printers, fridges, hoovers, washing machines, hairdryers, irons, toys, lights, fans and sewing machines.

The new rules will come into force across the EU by Dec 2006.

For consumers, it will mean a change in daily routine. Electrical and electronic goods - with new "crossed-out wheeled bin" signs - must be returned separately, through new local public collection points or retailer take back schemes. Rather than thrown in the bin or dumped, as usual.

For manufacturers, it means financing elaborate new recycling systems, with public collection points, retailer take back schemes and treatment, recovery and disposal systems.

Today, 90% of WEEE is landfilled, incinerated or recovered without any pretreatment.

28 November 2002

Euro MP pushes for more funds on 'intelligent energy'

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, recently (20 November) took the lead in the European Parliament in Strasbourg by proposing that the EU becomes the most 'energy intelligent' economy in the world.  Her report, adopted by the Parliament, recommended that energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources should be the cornerstone of its energy policies.  Mrs McNally's recommendation for increases to the programme's budget were also accepted.

Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator on energy matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "The successful vote has taken us another step forward in making the EU a better place to live.  The policies adopted will lead to less reliance on energy supplies from outside the EU, to helping us to meet our Kyoto commitments on reducing greenhouse gases and to reducing health hazards from burning fossil fuels in cities.  They also mean that households and businesses could benefit directly from using energy more efficiently."

She added, "The 'Intelligent Energy for Europe' Programme for 2003-6 is looking to achieve a greater focus and integration of activates across the EU's spheres of operation, and in very practical ways to maximise results.  We're linking these funds with those of other related programmes to achieve greater impact, and we certainly want to see words quickly followed by actions."

Mrs McNally, who is also the President of the European Forum on Renewable Energy Sources (EUFORES), said, "Our new single programme retains three of its current areas of activity: energy efficiency, renewable energy and international co-operation.  The latter is very important, not just in terms of helping developing countries economically and environmentally, but also for EU Member States who lead in design and manufacture of energy efficiency technology.  This can only be good for jobs here.  A forth strand will be a new initiative on the energy aspects of transport."

"The programme is also good news for small and medium sized firms as they are to be given priority along with local and regional networks.  A further aim is help with economic and social cohesion so less well off areas will be targeted."

Commenting on the subsequent decision by the Member State Energy Ministers to seek to restrict funding of the programme, Mrs McNally, said, "Working in the European Parliament is all about compromise.  The programme is accepted in principle by all and we're hopeful of pushing Ministers to spend at least a little more." 

5 September 2002

Euro MP votes to cut packaging waste

In the recent Strasbourg session of the European Parliament (2 Sept), local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted for new rules to make manufacturers pay to recycle up to 65% of the packaging they use. The proposed legislation aims to cut down on packaging waste.

Mrs McNally, who is the spokesperson on industry matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "Anyone can see that far too often there is unnecessary packaging on products and this waste material has all got to go somewhere."

"What people may not realise is that our landfill sites are reaching capacity and incinerators are at overflow. This just can't go on - we must cut down on packaging."

"Manufacturers need to be more sensible in how they wrap and package their products, and the public have to be educated to accept less glitzy presentation of goods, remembering that all that glistens is not gold."

"With food products, hygiene and common sense should prevail so that we don't get multiple layers of wrapping just for presentation's sake."

"This new EU legislation will require manufacturers to contribute more towards the cost of recycling their packaging so it follows that they'll be less willing to envelop their goods in layer upon layer of plastic and card."

"Business and consumers together have to accept this change, for the good of society, in limiting the damage to our fragile environment."

9 July 2002

Euro boost for heat and energy from wood and crops

In the recent session (4 July) of the European Parliament proposals were agreed to promote the use of 'bio-fuels'.  This involves, for example, using wood or crops to produce heat and/or energy.  In the UK, the main developments have been with fast-growing trees like willow and poplar that are combusted or gasified.

Regional Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who leads the Parliamentary Socialist Group on energy matters, said, "We've agreed with the Commission's proposal that bio-fuels should account for 2% of fuel sold in the fifteen Member States by 31 December 2005, and 5.75% by 2010.  I'd like to see these targets higher but I'm very conscious that we may be unable to match demand.  In view of this I'm calling for the active promotion of bio-fuel production, which is currently very limited in the EU."

"Renewable energy sources are critically important in environmental terms.  We have our Kyoto protocol commitments on greenhouse gases to fulfil and this initiative makes a small but significant contribution."

Mrs McNally is President of the European Forum on Renewable Energy Sources (EUFORES) and added, "In addition to the sources already mentioned, waste from agricultural and forestry operations can also be used in this way.  There may also be a future for bio-diesel that can be produced from oil seed rape and has fewer emissions than conventional diesel."

"Further encouragement to the development of renewable energy was the decision last week in the European Parliament to explore the possibility of applying a reduced rate of excise duty on certain mineral oils containing bio-fuels and on bio-fuels."

"The whole renewable energy industry is an exciting prospect and has considerable job and economic potential for this region." 

Note to editors:

1. In order to ensure effective implementation of the legislation, the Member States are obliged to put it into force by 31 December 2004.  The Commission will report back on progress made before 31 December 2006 with, if necessary, any further proposals for changing the legislation.

2.Click here to read Eryl's short guide to renewable energy.

8 July 2002

Nuclear clean-up costs "like a bottomless pit"

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has reacted angrily to the government's announcement that the bill to clean up Britain's nuclear energy industry has risen to £48 billion and she fears it could go on rising.

Mrs McNally, said, "This is a huge increase on previous figures that taxpayers are going to have to fund so that redundant power stations can be decommissioned and cleaned up. There's every likelihood that this could increase further and if we increase the number of nuclear reactors one gets the feeling of this becoming a bottomless pit."

"In addition, because of their vulnerability to terrorist attack, we're also going to have to cover the cost of a special police force to protect nuclear installations in light of 11 September."

Mrs McNally, who is the President of the European Forum on Renewable Energy Sources, added, "We have choices about our energy sources. It's important that with all methods we accurately count the cost. In my view nuclear power generation has proved to be far too costly in economic terms let alone those of an environmental nature, and we should forget it. What are much more exciting are the many forms of renewal energy sources that will have negligible environmental impact and none of these ongoing clean-up costs."

"As far as this region is concerned it is well placed to benefit in job and general economic terms from renewal energy generation."

1 May 2002

"Wind turbines are one small step", says Euro MP

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, recently announced to an inter-parliamentary meeting on renewable energy that the British government had given planning permission for off-shore wind turbines at Scroby Sands in Norfolk.

Mrs McNally, said, "These wind turbines are one small step in the development of renewable energy sources in the UK.  They are, however, incredibly important as a signal that we need to harness a wide variety of alternative energy sources, but ones that don't harm the environment or are going to run out one day."

Mrs McNally is President of the European Forum on Renewable Energy Sources (EUFORES) and presided over the recent meeting - representing European, National and Regional Parliaments - in Santiago de Compostela in Spain.  During her stay she joined other delegates in visiting a range of renewable energy installations.

She said, "Spain is well ahead of the UK on wind power, for example, mainly because its government has given a lot of support.  They're now pushing ahead on photovoltaics - solar power.  The UK hasn't got it quite right yet but has set sensible targets and has a plethora of worthwhile initiatives.  There is good job creation potential in renewable energy and the East of England should certainly be taking full advantage of that.  With good sunshine hours, plenty of off-shore wind and good agriculture for growing energy producing crops (biomass) this ought to be the region where UK companies are developing and manufacturing their products." During the meeting Mrs McNally, a fluent Spanish speaker, was quoted in two national newspapers in Spain and commented, "The Spanish have caught on to the fact that renewable energy is the way forward.  It would be nice to see our daily newspapers giving some space to this issue.  The region of Galicia in which we stayed is clearly a leader in these technologies and I want the East of England to be the same in the UK."

She added, "I fully back the declaration of Santiago de Compostela that strongly

supports the role of renewable energy sources as a solution to the two main energy policy concerns of the European Commission, namely environmental protection and security of supply.  I'm also very pleased that Commission will work on the development of mandatory labelling for all electricity sources so that consumers will know how their energy is being generated."

"Another feature of our meeting was to promote the idea of 'intelligent energy'.  It's exactly what it says and is about renewable energy, combined heat and power, and energy efficiency; maybe eventually a hydrogen-based economy.  It's the opposite of 'stupid energy' that wastefully heats the sky, leaves a legacy of deadly waste, has to be imported over vast distances or poisons the atmosphere." 

27 March 2002

Euro MP says east is sun ripe for solar power

Labour Euro MP for the region, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed yesterday's (Tuesday 26 March) announcement by the government that it is to increase grants available to individuals, companies and councils to install solar power on new or existing buildings.  Patricia Hewitt, Secretary of State at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), has approved funding to be made available through the department's Major Photovoltaics Demonstration Programme.

Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator on energy matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "Thousands of homes and offices across the eastern region are set to be powered by cleaner energy as part of this £20m solar power programme.  Our region is relatively sunny so is ripe for development."

"This will help reduce carbon emissions and significantly cut the cost of solar technology over the next three years. The number of UK domestic solar power installations - also known as photovoltaics - could increase ten- fold by 2005 as a result of this investment".

Mrs McNally, who is also the President of the European Forum for Renewable Energy Sources, said, "I'm delighted that the government has heeded what colleagues and I in the renewables field have been saying.  I salute their commitment to developing and exploiting all forms of renewable energy, and urge them to push ahead to even higher targets."

"This is excellent news for helping to protect the environment and for our renewables industry.  It will be a further encouragement for investment in this area, generating jobs and building an expertise that could make us world leaders in photovoltaic technology."

Enquiries about the grant programme can be received immediately on Freephone 0800 298 3978 and Faxback number 0845 330 0745.  A website is being set up www.solargrants.org.uk and will be operational in the second half of April.  
 
 

25 March 2002

Euro MP votes to get cheaper energy

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent Strasbourg session of the European Parliament for a regulated approach to further liberalisation of the EU's energy market.  She spoke in the debate as the Co-ordinator on energy matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group.

Mrs McNally, said, "The programme drawn up in Lisbon is dedicated to creating more jobs and increasing competition with a view to cutting prices.  If we're to achieve the latter we must remove the monopolies that exist in parts of the EU on energy production."

"The recent Barcelona summit of Prime Ministers from the fifteen Member States was very disappointing in this regard.  Once again countries like France, which have a state monopoly in energy, were let off the hook.  It's just not fair to our producers and consumers that French energy industry takes full advantage of having access to our market but not us to theirs."

"In our recent parliament session MEPs voted decisively to back the European Commission’s timetable for full gas and electricity liberalisation by 2005.  It's bad that in Barcelona France got away with refusing to include their domestic market in the liberalisation programme."

"I understand the sensitivities concerning the jobs of French energy workers but they have to bite the bullet if we are to meet our targets for getting down prices - something most consumers want."

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "All speeches in the European Parliament are always pretty short but amongst my points was our goal of seeking the lowest prices possible for consumers in line with choice.  I added that with this choice you need information, including labelling about the source of electricity - in particular showing how much energy is coming from renewable sources.  I also emphasised that research and development should be a public service obligation, because in a free market research is one of the areas that is most at risk."  

5 March 2002

Euro MP welcomes government sustainable energy initiative

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs. Eryl McNally, has welcomed the setting up of a government unit called 'Renewables UK' that aims to help manufacturers throughout the UK gain the benefits of the emerging global market in sustainable energy.  Energy and Industry Minister, Brian Wilson, launched 'Renewables UK' yesterday (4 March).

Mrs McNally, who is the President of the European Forum for Renewable Energy Sources, said, "This is excellent news and further proof of this government's commitment to harness renewable energy sources.  It also shows that Labour in power is about getting maximum commercial benefit for British based companies and creating and maintaining employment for their workers."

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, added, "We have to turn our attention very seriously to sustainable energy sources as our finite resources are fast running out and nuclear power is too expensive and dangerous.  The government has recently announced additional funding to promote solar power and give a boost to offshore wind, kick start energy crops, and bring on stream other new generation technologies".

"Although the government's target is to get 10% of the UK's electricity from renewable sources by the end of 2010, I hope this will be much increased.  However, the encouragement for increased use of renewable energy will bring about massive opportunities for investment and employment.  This new unit will help us to put the UK in the forefront of a multi-million pound market providing the world with renewable energy technology."  
 
 

26 February 2002

Euro MP says, "Dump nuclear power"

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs. Eryl McNally, has welcomed recommendations for increased use of renewable energy in the recent report by the Cabinet Office Performance and Innovation Unit but has expressed great disappointment that nuclear energy continues to figure prominently.

Mrs McNally, who is the President of the European Forum for Renewable Energy Sources, said "I am pleased that the report argues that better efficiency is the cheapest way of maintaining security of supply and meeting climate change targets."

"It also recommends that renewable energy sources should be supplying 20 per cent of the UK's electricity's needs by 2020, and while this is laudable I would like to see us go a lot further.  Last year Prime Minister, Tony Blair, acknowledged the wealth of opportunity there is in the UK for harnessing resources like offshore wind, wave and tidal power, and I'd like to see much emphasis on the development of these."

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, added, "The down side of the report is that it looks to replace nuclear energy plants with more of the same.  This just doesn't make sense when they'll need millions of public money to sustain.  They're uneconomic, unsafe and most people don't like them either.  I can't believe it when I hear nuclear industry representatives talking about environmentally friendly plants; they've learnt nothing from nuclear disasters around the world."

"Other forms of renewable energy, such as solar and biomass (crops), are readily available to us in the UK.  This is where the future of energy generation should lie and above all it is safe and secure.  I hope that the Prime Minister will respond to the report with a strategy that promotes renewables and dumps nuclear in the waste bin of history."  
 
 
12 February 2002

Euro MP speaks in EU debate on energy

Labour Euro MP for the East of England Region, Mrs Eryl McNally, spoke in the recent (4 Feb) European Parliament debate on the first reading of a directive on energy efficiency of buildings.  The new legislation aims to promote the improvement of the energy performance of buildings in all EU Member States whilst employing the most cost-effective measures.

Speaking in the hemicycle parliament chamber, Mrs McNally said, "This directive, part of a package of measures aimed at making our use of energy more intelligent, should disseminate the existing good practice of some Member States right across the EU, and will also be very important in improving the situation in applicant countries where energy-efficient buildings could do much to help their economies as well as protecting the environment."

Commenting on calls to reduce the minimum surface area (1000m2) of buildings to which these rules would apply Mrs McNally said, "It could well be that this directive is insufficiently ambitious and that it should also apply to much smaller surface areas. I'd ask the Commission to prepare for a reduction if that proves necessary."

She added, "Given that buildings last between fifty and a hundred years I'm glad that the legislation is intended to apply certain proposals to the existing stock of buildings.  This legislation is a very positive move by the European Parliament to protect our environment - that's good news for everyone."  

Note to Editors:
The proposal covers four main elements:
Establishment of a general framework of a common methodology for calculating the integrated energy performance of buildings.
Minimum standards for the energy performance of new buildings and of certain existing buildings when they are renovated.
Certification schemes for new and existing buildings on the basis of the above standards.
Specific inspection and assessment of boilers and heating/cooling installations.

11 December 2001

Euro MP supports Minister on energy targets

Local Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the announcement by Patricia Hewitt, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (at the IPPR conference on 4 December), that the government is seeking to maximise its target for the proportion of energy produced from renewable sources.   Its current target of 10% by the year 2010 is likely to increase although no figure has been quoted.  This would see more use of energy sources such as wind, solar, water (hydro and waves), and biomass (wood and crops).

Some commentators think a target of nearer 20% for renewable energy generation could be set and this would make Britain one of the most environmentally friendly producers of energy in Europe

Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group on energy matters, said, “This is excellent news for the environment as renewables don't eat into our finite resources.  Every encouragement should be given to these schemes and there needs to be an easing of the planning process while making them more acceptable to local communities."

She added, " The expansion of nuclear power with all of its attendant dangers and problems is not the answer.  I am very buoyed by the comments made by Brian Wilson, Minister for Industry, Energy and the Environment, when he said (in a speech to the joint BNIF and BNES Conference on 6 December) that the nuclear industry shouldn't expect the government to create conditions in which they would be able to build as many stations as they liked.  I'd much prefer, however, for us to kick out any idea of nuclear power expansion."  
 
 

28 November 2001

"Nuclear not the way forward", says Euro MP

Labour Euro MP for this region, Mrs Eryl McNally, says she's very disappointed that the recently published Euratom Framework Research Programme is continuing to invest huge amounts of money into nuclear fusion and the development of nuclear fission.

Mrs McNally, who is the Parliamentary Socialist Group spokesperson on research and energy, said, "The Parliament is very limited in what it can do to change the long-standing Euratom Treaty but it is a complete anachronism - unchanged since 1957 and totally out of keeping with the times."

"To keep spending millions of pounds of taxpayers' money on nuclear research is madness and flying in the face of a sensible energy policy", added Mrs McNally, who is the President of the European Forum on Renewable Energy Sources.  "We should be concentrating on making the future one in which we generate a much larger proportion of out energy from renewable sources."

"Alongside that we need to be much more energy efficient, both at home and at work.  Government departments have done very well on this despite a small slip back last year.  Chancellor Gordon Brown's promise in his pre-Budget report of further tax incentives for companies to invest in cleaner, energy-saving technologies is also to be welcomed."  
 

23 November 2001

Euro MP calls for more small-scale research

Labour Euro MP for the region, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed in principle the European Parliament's proposed 6th Framework Programme for Research and Development.  She says, however, that there should be more focus on cutting edge research such as 'nano-technology' that involves work at the smallest scale possible instead of large firms monopolising the market.

Mrs McNally, who is the Parliamentary Socialist Group spokesperson on research, said, "I know from visiting small-scale research establishments of the outstanding work that they do; Cranfield University in this region, for instance.  What worries me is that the big boys too often create scientific cartels and carve up the work amongst themselves, leaving out able, but smaller, centres."

"I'm also hoping to see certain gaps plugged in the programme, particularly for example, in areas like health, non-nuclear energy and land and water transport.  In addition I'd like to see countries outside the EU helped to combat diseases like HIV/AIDS and malaria."

"There's always room for improvement with something like this but the Framework Programme is one of the EU's big success stories and I trust we can build on it."  

 
25 October 2001

"Nuclear secrecy hides great danger," says Euro MP

Labour Euro MP for the region, Mrs Eryl McNally, is angry that officials in the European Parliament tried to keep from the public a report it commissioned on British Nuclear Fuels' reprocessing plant at Sellafield in Cumbria.  She says the independent report, presented to the European Union's Scientific Technological Options Assessment team, of which she is a member, shows the facility presents grave danger to the public across the country.

Mrs McNally said, "I welcome the publication of the report, which has only just seen the light of day.  In one sense I am shocked by it but on the other hand it only confirms what I feared.  Trying to keep such a report from the public only serves to reinforce the impression that the nuclear industry is secretive and has something to hide; it must be more open if it is to be taken seriously."

She says that even before the dreadful events of 11 September an independent research team had written a report warning that the high level radioactive waste tanks at Sellafield posed a terrorist threat.  She says despite expensive and complex safety measures, this puts the whole country in jeopardy and is calling for reprocessing there to be stopped.

Mrs McNally added, "As well as the obvious risks associated with terrorist attacks the report also flags up the dangerous toxic effects from the radioactive discharges that come out of the plant.  As we know only too well accidents can and do happen at nuclear installations, and these might lead to large releases of radioactivity.  The continuing increased incidence of childhood leukaemia can't be ignored either."

"Although my constituents live far away from the Sellafield plant I feel it is my duty to speak out as such issues can have far-reaching consequences and could well affect people in this locality." 

16 October 2001

Euro MP disappointed at nuclear decision

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has expressed her disappointment at the government's recent decision to allow British Nuclear Fuels Ltd (BNFL) to use its Sellafield plant for MOX fuel production.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament and is the Parliamentary Socialist Group's co-ordinator on energy matters, said, "This decision is ridiculous and really worrying since the MOX system requires the transportation of plutonium. This carries dangers and in the wrong hands could be lethal.  In light of the tragic events in the USA this decision is at best foolish." 

12 October 2001

Eryl gives boost to energy efficiency

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is steering new legislation through the European Parliament that she predicts will make significant reductions in polluting CO2 emissions.  As 'Rapporteur' on the committee dealing with energy matters she got agreement in the recent Strasbourg parliamentary session for the introduction of the 'Energy Star' labelling programme for energy efficient office and communication technology equipment.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "The regulation is designed to introduce a voluntary scheme to promote energy efficiency for computers and screens, faxes, scanners and printers.  It ties in with a similar scheme in the USA so this will means two large trading blocks will be offering consumers the chance to buy clearly marked energy efficient equipment."

"Energy Ministers from the EU's fifteen Member States have accepted my report with the exception that they're looking for manufacturers to voluntarily make a gradual withdrawal from the market of inefficient items.  However, if that doesn't work I shall be back demanding that the European Commission sets about tabling suitable legislation to get these machines outlawed."

"Although this scheme is relatively modest, the educative, awareness-raising aspects of seeing the Energy Star logo on equipment is very worthwhile. We know that one of the tasks in increasing energy efficiency is to improve public awareness.  Alongside this I'm encouraging the Commission in its work of bringing to Parliament a package of energy efficiency measures well beyond Energy Star.

2 August 2001

The sky's the limit for Euro MP

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has been appointed as Vice-President of an all party group in the European Parliament established to consider issues concerned with 'sky and space'.
Mrs McNally, who leads the Parliamentary Socialist Group on the committee dealing with energy and research, said, "I am very honoured that my parliamentary colleagues have asked me to take up this post. The group will be looking into a wide range of issues for the EU to initiate, promote or support.  Much of the Parliament's work relies upon a consensus between different political groups so it's important to have cross-party dialogue on these very important matters. I will certainly do my best to play a very active part. "
"This region stands to gain a lot economically from research linked to 'sky and space'.  For example, at Cranfield University in Bedfordshire they are carrying out EU funded research aimed at designing aircraft that are safer and more environmentally friendly.  Also, our region's agriculture and horticulture will benefit from satellite generated information on climate change."
"Through the work of this group local people will get safer air travel as a 'single sky' is created by the co-ordination of European air traffic control."
"Although predominantly a parliamentary group we shall be talking with European Commissioners and representatives of related industries.  At first sight the group may appear a little high flown but it has everyday issues to address and the goal of enhancing the quality of life of EU citizens."  

Note to Editors: 

Mrs McNally is a former Deputy Leader of the UK's Labour MEPs, the European Parliamentary Labour Party.  She is also the President of the European Forum on Renewable Energy Sources.

"More nuclear plants would be crazy" says Euro MP
Member of the European Parliament for the East of England Region, Mrs Eryl McNally, has reacted angrily to plans announced today by British Nuclear Fuels (BNFL) for more nuclear power stations - including one at Sizewell on the east coast.
Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator on energy matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "It would be absolutely crazy for new nuclear power stations to be built in Britain.  It doesn't make any sense either in economic or environmental terms."
"It was a myth that nuclear power would be produced for next to nothing and the environmental dangers of waste products will linger for countless years.  The cost of building and running nuclear plants is just not economically viable without huge government subsidies.  We're still counting the cost of the Chernobyl disaster and the threat of nuclear accident with its horrific consequences is ever-present while ever we have these plants."
"By far the safest and cheapest method of producing power is by using renewable energy sources.  For instance, wind, wave and solar power and the burning of biomass like wood chippings and crops, could remove any reliance on nuclear power and at significantly less cost to the taxpayer."

11 July 2001

Euro MP speaks in energy debate

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, spoke in the debate on renewable energy sources in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg.  She joined in an overwhelming vote in favour of legislation to increase the proportion of electricity generated from renewable sources.
Mrs McNally, who leads the Parliamentary Socialist Group on the committee dealing with energy and research, said, "As is common in the Parliament we had to compromise a bit to get the agreement of the Energy Ministers from the Member States, but this is an historic piece of legislation.  For the first time we're setting targets for how much of our electricity is to be generated from renewable sources."
"This will help us to meet our commitment to reduce greenhouse gases and to preserve our finite energy sources as well as providing security of supply.  I hope that it will also steer us away from the use of nuclear power, which has extremely negative safety and cost implications.  Talk of extending nuclear power plants would be a crackpot idea."
"The EU directive we've agreed is looking to support schemes for generating electricity from renewable sources such as wind, wave and solar power and the burning of biomass such as crops.  I want local people to know that here in the UK we could generate four times our energy needs by harnessing the power of the wind.  I also want local firms to think about getting involved in this industry.  There are many jobs to be gained and we could be net exporters of electricity." 

Euro MP leads energy revolution

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, recently addressed an international conference held in Sweden on the use of renewable energy sources.  She was there as the President of the European Forum on Renewable Energy Sources - EUFORES - and met MEPs and MPs from several countries along with academics and representatives of companies in the energy generation industry.

The conference was aimed at promoting an increase in the proportion of energy produced by renewable sources along with improved energy efficiency.

Mrs McNally said, "A lot of research is going on into renewables and there is already considerable practical application, but their potential is far from being fully realised.  While I was in Sweden I visited a plant which not only burned sawdust pellets to generate electricity for the local community but also complemented this with wind generated power."

"The potential for cleanly burning biomass - naturally grown products like sawdust pellets and crops - is considerable and can be renewed in a relatively short time.  Many of these products can be used in conventional boilers with little or no adaptation.  As indigenous resources renewables increase the security of supply."

"Also, here in the East of England we should be taking advantage of the sun's rays for solar power as well harnessing wave and wind power.  Local people need making aware that we could meet all our power needs by off-shore wind turbines with no cost to our finite fuel resources."

"As well as the obvious environmental advantages the creation of energy through renewable sources provides outstanding potential for job creation.  Unfortunately the way the energy industry is organised doesn't encourage the use of renewables so I would like to see the government provide further incentives."

"I want to make members of the public more aware of the benefits of renewable energy sources and hope that as individuals or as members of community groups they will promote the obvious benefits so that a greater proportion of our energy is produced in this way.  I'm calling on all MEP colleagues across all parties and countries to prioritise renewable energy sources and energy efficiency in their parliamentary activities so that we may achieve a more environmentally sound energy supply." 

26 March 2001
'Smart energy' will aid competitiveness
Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has joined a cross-party and cross-nation initiative to make Europe's economy the most energy intelligent in the world.  She considers as far too weak the European Commission Action Plan on Energy Efficiency so has co-written a report entitled 'Energy Intelligent Europe', which aims to promote energy efficiency as the number one energy 'source'.

Estimates indicate that implementing the right energy efficiency measures could save more than 30 % of European final energy consumption. There are, however, several barriers to realising this potential, such as lack of information about available technologies, market imperfections and discouraging taxation.

Mrs McNally believes there are strong reasons for adopting an ambitious EU policy on energy efficiency, such as reducing dependency on external supplies, realising Kyoto commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reducing health hazards from fossil fuel use in cities. In addition both households and business would benefit financially from using energy more intelligently. Her report suggests a number of initiatives in areas where both the economy and the environment stand to gain the most:

Mrs McNally, who is the Parliamentary Socialist Group spokesperson on energy, said, "We must provide incentives so that energy companies will earn money not only through selling more kilowatt-hours, but by providing more with less, i.e. by providing the same level of energy services as before but with less input of energy."

Another important suggestion is to turn the EU institution buildings into good examples of Energy Intelligence and energy efficiency.  Mrs McNally also hopes that EU initiatives can help to set international standards for appliances and office equipment worldwide.

Within the next few weeks Mrs McNally hopes to promote her report when she attends a formal meeting with the European Commissioner responsible for energy matters.  

23 February 2001

Euro MP hosts Minister on energy crops

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, will be hosting a visit to Bedfordshire of the Minister of Agriculture, Rt Hon Joyce Quinn, MP.  This will take place at an international conference on the potential of crops for producing energy to be held on Tuesday 6 March at Silsoe Research Institute.

Mrs McNally, who is the spokesperson on research and energy for the Parliamentary Socialist Group and also the President of the European Forum for Renewable Energy Sources, said, "It is a mark of the importance of this subject that the Minister is coming to talk at this conference.  Also on the platform will be representatives of the NFU, the European Commission, commercial companies and research organisations"

"The conference aims to explore the development of energy crops and the research needed to progress this potential in order to help meet renewable energy targets.  The issue of energy crops is of particular importance to the East of England with its heavy dependence on agriculture." 

Note to Editors:
There will be a photo opportunity with Joyce Quinn, MP and Eryl McNally, MEP at 10.15am in the mansion at Wrest Park, Silsoe on Tuesday 6 March.

9 February 2001

Eryl's Energy Star can help save the planet

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has led the way in the European Parliament to get the introduction of the Energy Star labelling programme for energy efficient office and communication technology equipment.  She predicts that between now and 2015 it could save countless hours of energy burning which would reduce C02 emissions by 5 million tonnes throughout the EU.

Eryl, who is the Spokesperson on Energy and Research for the Parliamentary Socialist Group said, "It sounds almost like the world of science fiction when I have to explain that to be energy-efficient, computers must go to sleep, but they must wake up instantly when they are required to do so. When they are asleep their electricity consumption is cut on average from 100 watts to 5 watts. Given the number of computers in homes, schools, workplaces, etc., you can see how the savings mount up from the good sleeping habits of those machines."

"Until now, the European Union has produced its own energy efficient standards, often mandatory and the European Parliament has taken seriously its responsibility as a co-legislator to see that such standards are sufficiently stringent. That is why there would be very serious reservations from Parliament about adopting this US Energy Star scheme if that were to be our only measure.  This would be more the case were there no provisions in the agreement for regular review of the results, with the objective, of course, of always being at the leading edge of the relevant technologies."

"Further measures are certainly needed, including the glaringly obvious one of switching the machines off sometimes and withdrawing particularly inefficient machines from the market, either voluntarily or, if necessary, with legislation."

The European Parliament recently endorsed Mrs McNally's report on Energy Star labelling and it now awaits the agreement of the relevant Ministers from the fifteen Member States.

30 November 2000

"Wind power talk is not just hot air" says Euro MP

Local Labour Euro MP Eryl McNally has said that local people could have all of their power needs met by off-shore wind turbines at no cost to our finite fuel resources.  She was speaking recently in the Strasbourg session of the European Parliament and drew the attention of MEPs to the fact that Britain has the potential to generate four times its power requirements from wind power alone.

Mrs McNally, who is the President of the European Forum for Renewable Energy Sources was calling for the extension of the use of renewable energy across Europe and for the setting of binding targets for Member States to meet.

Representing the East of England region, Mrs McNally said, "This region has tremendous potential for wind generated electricity.   This is one of several sources of renewable energy and we should set a long time span over which financial assistance can be given to renewable energy schemes."

Eryl added, "I recently met Stephen Byers, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, and discussed off-shore wind power.  This is a realistic prospect as evidenced by the injection of large sums government money, on which I congratulated him."   

10 July 2000

Region’s MEP addresses international conference
Eryl McNally, Labour Euro MP for the East of England region, was the opening guest speaker at the recent World Renewable Energy Congress meeting in Brighton. She addressed over a thousand delegates from 105 countries including many government ministers.
Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator on energy matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group was recently installed as President of EUFORES – the European Forum on Renewable Energy Sources.
In her address she said it was all very well calling for a level playing field between different kinds of energy but when the field had been sloping for decades in favour of fossil and nuclear fuels it was time that renewable energy sources were given extra help in being developed.
She added, "There is a huge and growing interest world-wide in the use of renewable energy. As governments see dwindling finite energy resources they are inevitably turning to renewable sources such as solar, wind and wave.
All 15 Member States’ governments, through the Council of Ministers, and the Parliament are being consulted on a draft Directive that will bring EU-wide legislation into force. This will only be imposed if insufficient progress is made on achieving the targets set for renewable energy."
"I am talking to UK government ministers and encouraging them to do more to take up the potential for renewables, especially wind power. One possible controversy in the UK is that we stand alone in the EU on treating energy produced from household waste as ‘renewable’ since it has either come from methane created from landfill or from incineration. Our partners in Europe tell us that this is no way to encourage recycling. I’d be interested to hear the views of readers on this point. My contact
details are given below."

Click here to find out how to contact Eryl by post or email. 

28 March 2000

Local Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, was the guest of honour at the official opening of a solar-powered house in Brussels recently. She is the spokesperson for the Socialist Group in the European Parliament on the committee that deals with research and energy. It was because of the leading role she plays in the parliament on energy issues that she was asked to flick the switch that powered up the music system to herald the opening of the ‘solar house’.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament said, "The opening was rather symbolic as it coincided with the start of spring although the system can work year-round. The house belongs to a colleague who works on energy issues in the European Commission and his installation is a matter of principle, although he’s had to meet all of the cost from his own pocket. However, not far away in the Flanders Region he could have got a 75% grant for installing solar power."

"The east of England gets quite a lot of sun, much more than some might think, so this area could well benefit from harnessing solar power. Any alternative to using up the earth’s finite natural resources should be encouraged by government."

"I hope, as in other parts of the EU, our own government will consider giving grants to help people change to renewable energy sources."

The model house in Brussels has a solar generator of about 1 KW power. The modules consist of blue polycrystalline silicon cells and some golden cells from Japan. Pilkington in Cologne produced the modules. There is also a battery and some electronics to feed into the grid of the house. The generator covers about 1/3 of the electricity needs of the house.

Eryl would like to hear from anyone who has undertaken or is contemplating a similar project. She may be contacted at European Office, The Labour Party, 270 St Albans Road, Watford WD2 5PE or on to send an e-mail at click here.

The European Union

16 December 2002

Euro MP welcomes EU enlargement

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the decision by the governments of EU Member States to allow in ten new countries in June 2004. Under the EU's Danish Presidency, the decision was taken at a summit meeting in Copenhagen last weekend.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "I'm very relieved that, after several years of preparatory work, the governments of the current fifteen EU members have agreed to allow another ten countries to join us in eighteen months' time."

"Although the current members will have to jointly help fund the entry of the ten new members, the UK government has made sure that it won't be at the expense of our rebate."

"There's much to be sorted out as far as the new entrants are concerned; particularly significant are areas such as environmental standards and agriculture. However, moving towards a united Europe is the higher goal and that makes it all worthwhile." 

The ten new EU countries will be Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, Cyprus and Malta.

14 October 2002

"EU enlargement good for our region" says Euro MEP

Responding to a recent report by the European Commission on the readiness of ten countries seeking to join the EU, local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the great progress made on negotiations for their accession.  She says that increasing the number of Member States in the EU will bring about an estimated one-off increase in this country's gross domestic product (GDP) of up to 2 billion pounds and will be good news for the local economy and people living in this area.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "There are still some difficult hurdles for the ten applicant countries to jump but my Labour MEP colleagues and I are going to do all we can in the Parliament to assist their successful accession into the EU.  That would be a giant step on the road to the reunification of Europe."

 "We're very hopeful that these countries will be able to become members in time for the European Parliament elections of June 2004.  Much will depend upon the Prime Ministers of current Members States when they meet in the Council of Ministers and we're calling on them to treat each case strictly on its merits. "

"The applicants are not coming with a begging bowl and they have lots to offer.  Being part of a big club like the EU means that members share their good practice and ideas.  I've had lots of contact with representatives of candidate countries and I know, for instance, that we could learn much to our advantage from Slovakia, which is ahead of us in the field of science education - vital to our economic wellbeing."

"Detractors raise the cost of enlargement but it only amounts to a tiny fraction of one per cent of the EU budget - less than a tenth of what Germany spent on its reunification - and the rewards for all members are great.  We're building a market of 500 million people and this can only be good for local people and jobs." 

Note to Editors:

The ten applicant countries are:

Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta and Cyprus

31 August 2002

Labour's no.1 Euro MP to quit

Mrs Eryl McNally, MEP, top candidate on Labour's regional list in the last European elections, is to stand down at the next election, saying that the new regional system doesn't work.

Mrs McNally has been deputy leader of Labour's MEPs and currently holds the leading role as spokesperson for the Parliamentary Socialist Group on the Trade & Industry Committee.  She was first elected to the European Parliament in 1994 for the then Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes.  Her success was particularly marked as she beat the high-profile Tory, Edwina Currie, achieving the second highest swing of votes to Labour in the whole country.

Mrs McNally believes that ten years should be the maximum term for Euro MPs and that the new regional list system has been a failure.

She said, "I can't realistically call myself an accountable local representative in a region of five and a half million people, in six counties with 56 Westminster constituencies, alongside seven other MEPs of different parties.  The vast majority of electors in the East of England Region don't have the foggiest idea who their MEP is and none of us can form the links we had when we each represented a much smaller area."

"I think we probably had to change to a system of proportional representation (PR) but unfortunately the worst possible system was chosen."

"Most Euro MPs work very hard but the system makes our work impossible to follow for the public.  It should be changed as soon as possible to one where there are proper manageable constituencies." 

"Constituents can be reassured that I shall be working as hard as ever to take up any EU related matters on their behalf and to back laws that enhance the quality of their lives.  I've been privileged to represent the people of the East of England and I'll be pushing for them right up to the next elections in June 2004."

Mrs McNally hopes to work in the voluntary sector when she steps down as a MEP.

28 August 2002

Euro MP backs written EU constitution

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has come out strongly in support of Home Secretary, Jack Straw, in backing the creation of a written constitution for the European Union.

Mrs McNally said, "The convention on the future of Europe is in place and so this is a crucial phase in shaping the EU for the 21^st century. In addition there will be a constitutional summit in 2004, so the time is right to address the issue of a written constitution for the EU."

"I strongly support the call for a written constitution. It's the only way to clarify who does what. Some people fear that the EU can make decisions on any subject it pleases while the reality is that its powers are very limited. Let's get the whole thing sorted out and written down."

"With a written constitution ordinary people, and not just a small elite, will be able to better understand what the EU is about and how it can enhance the quality of their lives. They'll also be reassured that our own national government will remain the main lawmaker."

2 July 2002 

Euro MP welcomes Danish presidency 

This week in Strasbourg Danish Ministers take over the Presidency of the European Parliament which puts them in the driving seat for the next six months. Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has given this a qualified welcome. Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the Parliament, said, "For a long time now we've looked to the Danes as a nation with very high social standards and great environmental awareness. On many issues they've led the way in the EU. Holding the Presidency of the Parliament gives them the responsibility of pushing forward our agenda." "Up to their last elections I admired the Danish government for its sensible legislation but recently they have adopted some questionable policies, such as those on asylum, so I hope this will not affect their presidency of the Parliament." 

10 June 2002

EU materials made more accessible

Letter to the Editor

Sir/Madam

Readers may be interested to know that due to pressure exerted by Members of the European Parliament all EU documents are now accessible by the public.

Under a new code, all documents sent to, held by or stored at the European Council (representing the governments of the fifteen Member States), European Commission and Parliament will be subject to public scrutiny via the Internet.  Members of the public will be able to search by name, date, key words or political party, so you don't have to be an expert to work the system.

Opinion polls suggest that the majority of people in the UK are confused about the EU and this will be one way to open up what goes on in the European institutions.  I'm pleased that due to pressure put on by my colleagues and me in the Parliament that members of the public, the media, community groups and others can be better informed about what we do.

The old way of working was seen like a veil of secrecy surrounding the EU and that only makes those outside think that there's something to hide.  On the contrary, I believe we should be trumpeting the great strides we've made joining with our European partners to improve the quality of life of our citizens.

Opening up our documents to the public gaze is a very important step.  All Parliament sessions are open to the public and I hope that the governments of the fifteen Member States will move to let in observers to meetings of the EU Council when it is acting in it's legislative capacity.

The EU's new register of documents can be found at:
http://www.europa.eu.int/comm/secretariat_general/sgc/acc_doc/index_en.htm

15 May 2002

Euro MP votes for more research

Labour Euro MP for the East of England region, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed today's (Wednesday 15 May) vote in the European Parliament in Strasbourg that will bring more research funding into the region.  The vote approved the European Union's Sixth Framework Programme for Research and Development for the period 2002-2006, releasing € 17.5 billion (nearly £10 billion) for European research.

Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator on research matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "It's acknowledged that not only does the UK gets the biggest slice of research funding but our region is the biggest beneficiary.  So this is excellent news for the East of England as the universities, institutions and companies involved in research will continue to create and maintain employment opportunities for local people."

"Moreover this is a very positive development for small and medium sized firms (SMEs) as they are to be encouraged to participate in research and at least 15% of the funding has been earmarked for them.  SMEs tend to be very innovative and make an excellent contribution to job opportunities in the area."

"The new Framework contains some very positive aspects including the integration of sustainable development and the reduction of external environmental costs.  It will also respect ethical principles held across Europe; in particular banning research activity into human cloning for reproduction.  Animal welfare is a top priority and experiments on animals will be firmly discouraged, and I know this will please many of my constituents "

"As a former teacher I'm pleased to see that a science and society action plan will be introduced that includes encouragement for young science students.  It's also good that discrimination against women scientists is to be countered."

"My colleagues in the Socialist Group and I are committed to making the EU the most dynamic and competitive economy in the world by 2010.  Not only will this programme make us more competitive, it will help in the fight against serious illness and environmental problems." 

Note to Editors:

Some main points of the EU's Sixth Framework Programme are:

  Support for research into

·        aerospace

·        nano-technologies

·        genomics - exploiting knowledge of our genetic make-up

·        information technology with special encouragement for the production of easy-to-use equipment for the elderly and disabled.

·        research into serious illness and disease

  Winning technologies include postgenomics, i.e. exploiting new knowledge on genetic makeup, nanotechnology (research at atom level), information technologies, particularly those that make sophisticated computers available in an easy-to-use manner for groups like the elderly or disabled.

  Research into nuclear safety, disposal of radioactive waste and nuclear fusion will all be funded. Scientists in applicant and developing countries have not been forgotten as €600 million is to be set aside for international co-operation.

22 April 2002

Statement on French presidential election

The fact that the extreme right-wing candidate, Jean-Marie Le Pen, has won through to the final vote in the French presidential election is very worrying both for France and the whole of the European Union.

Le Pen has made many racist and xenophobic statements over the years and it was this kind of intolerance, typified by the fascists in Germany, that took this country to war in 1939.

The underlying principles of the EU are founded on tolerance, understanding and co-operation between peoples.  This is why post-war Germany and France were so keen to form this union, so that they could live in peace.

I'm very sad for the Socialist candidate, Lionel Jospin, who was an excellent candidate, didn't make it to the final vote.  I went to support him in a pre-election rally in Paris but it was becoming clear then that with sixteen candidates, including several on the left of politics, combined with voter apathy, he was going to be up against it.

I trust that the French people will come to their senses and reject the hateful politics of Le Pen.  
 

16 April 2002

Euro MP says CAP is completely unsustainable

Labour Euro MP for the region, Mrs Eryl McNally, spoke at a recent (Saturday 13 April) regional conference of the Transport and General Workers' Union.  The gathering, held at Otley Agricultural & Horticultural College, focussed on issues affecting those employed in rural, agricultural and allied trades.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "The EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is completely unsustainable.  We can't go on giving enormous cheques to farmers for limited pay back."

"Reform is absolutely necessary, particularly as we enlarge the EU and welcome in new Member States.  We must ensure that in this region as well as across the whole EU our rural life is healthy and provides good employment opportunities."

"We need farmer to play their part in that and to gain a decent living by not only producing food but also by managing the environment and using less intensive methods.  This should meet the public's wish for high quality food and a countryside which maintains wild life habits and is a pleasure to visit."

"Farmers should be rewarded for generating jobs and worker should continue to be protected by the Agricultural Wages Board.  Grants should also be given for growing crops that can produce energy as in bio-ethanol from sugar beet for example."

"There is a bright future for rural east England but the EU has to sort out how it is going to reward those who contribute to its wellbeing."  
 

8 March 2002

Tories' hot air over bagpipes

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs. Eryl McNally, says Conservative members in the European Parliament are scare mongering by claiming that bagpipes will be banned by a new directive to be voted on next week (Wednesday 13th March) in Strasbourg.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is typical of the Tories who can't get their act together on Europe so just seek to create myths about the EU.  Their latest claim is unfounded, as bagpipes will be exempted from the provisions of the new 'noise' directive."

"What's much more important is that the European Parliament is concerning itself with the health and safety of workers.  The directive will establish new limits for noisy environments including, factories, airports etc.  If the Tories were to represent their constituents properly they'd be entering into a serious debate on this very important issue instead of peddling myths."

"Most Members of Parliament agree that the music and leisure industries are a special case, so next week's vote is likely to see them exempted from the 'noise' directive, including noise levels in pubs, clubs, karaoke bars, orchestra pits and concert halls."

“There is a clear need to reduce prolonged exposure of workers to excessive noise in factories and other noisy environments for health reasons.  The Tories just create hot air while my Labour colleagues and I are taking the matter seriously."  

8 March 2002

Statement on Daily Mail Article 6 March 2002 p30

“Traditional white British ambulances are to be repainted yellow to bring them into line with Europe”

Labour MEP, Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said,

"This is yet another piece of misleading journalism aimed at discrediting the EU."

"Had the writer of this piece checked the facts it would have been easily established that this is nothing at all to do with the EU.  A proposal to standardise the colour of ambulances was produced by a non-EU organisation called the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN).  Countries that participate in the CEN include Switzerland, Malta and the Czech Republic, none of which are members of the EU."

"The proposal to paint ambulances yellow is voluntary anyway and is aimed at making the roads safer for ambulance crews, patients, motorists and pedestrians.  This seems laudable if people's well being is the priority, and not something to gripe about."  
 

22 February 2002

How EU laws are made
Sir,

Foreign Secretary, Jack Straw, in his speech in The Hague, asked some searching questions on the future of the EU.  This was set against a background of ten new countries joining in 2004.

The EU is certainly going to need some critical revision as this enlargement takes place and others follow in years to come.  The three main questions he raised were: How can we make the EU better understood?  How can we make it more democratically accountable?  How can we make the EU more effective?  I hope readers will write to Jack Straw to let him know what they think.

Contrary to what Euro sceptics would have you believe European laws are not made behind closed doors by faceless bureaucrats.  As an elected Member of the European Parliament I play my part in that process along with fellow members and heads of Member States, assisted by our civil servants in the Commission.  Putting laws onto the European statute book is complicated but who would claim to know all the intricacies of law making at Westminster?  The responsibilities of the EU are limited to certain issues where joint action is seen to more beneficial so most legislation that governs our lives is put in place by national governments.

If readers would like a short guide which explains how laws are made in the EU click here to find out how to contact me.
Eryl McNally, MEP

Note to Editors:
Do contact us if you'd like a copy of this guide produced by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.  It's called Heard about 'European Law'? But not sure what it is?

 24 January 2002

Euro MP lands top job

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has been re-elected to a top job in the European Parliamentary Socialist Group.  She was unanimously elected yesterday (Wednesday 23) to act as Co-ordinator on the Committee for Industry, External Trade, Research and Energy.  She will continue to be the official spokesperson until the end of the Parliament in June 2004.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Being re-elected unanimously by one's peers is very gratifying and, I hope, reflects their satisfaction with what I've done as committee co-ordinator over the last few years."

She added, "I'll be responsible for deciding on the voting lists, allocating work and representing the group at all committee meetings as well as liaising with various ministers from the fifteen Member States and the European Commission."

"I feel very honoured to hold this position again.  The issues we deal with - industrial policy, the World Trade Organisation and trade agreements and all research and energy matters, are vital to the EU's competitiveness and particularly relevant to our region"

"There are many issues that I want to push forward over the next two years but wearing my hat as the President of the European Forum on Renewable Energy Sources it would please me greatly if we could produce a far bigger proportion of our energy from renewable sources such as wind, wave or sun.

Mrs McNally was first elected to the European Parliament in 1994 and has served for over five years as Socialist Group Co-ordinator on Research and Energy.  She was deputy leader of the European Parliamentary Labour Party - Britain's Labour MEPs - in 1998.  
 
 

7 January 2002

Give your old Euro-zone coins to charity

Letter to the Editor

Sir,

It's just a few days now since the fanfares heralding the introduction of the Euro currency to twelve of the fifteen Member States of the European Union.  Although I shall encourage the adoption of the Euro here when the conditions are right that is not the purpose of this letter.

Many readers will have saved their change from holidays in mainland Europe but will find that for the coming summer this will be worthless.  However, it doesn't have to be of no use as most banks and building societies are collecting unwanted currency on behalf of charities.  You don't even have to sort it before you hand it in.

The countries involved are Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Republic of Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.

Any readers who are hoping to visit the Euro Zone or who would just like to know more about the new currency and arrangements for the change-over may like to get hold of a useful leaflet entitled 'Euro notes and coins' from my office.  Click here for details on how to contact my office by email, phone or letter.  For information on the Euro on this website and for links click here.

I'd like to take this opportunity to wish readers a happy and peaceful New Year.

Yours truly,

Eryl McNally, MEP

13 September 2000

Euro MP to host top level conference for small businesses

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is hoping to improve the chances of the region's small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) getting a bigger share of EU funds to help in research projects. She is hosting a conference at the Hatfield Fielder Centre on Friday 20 September at which top officials from the European Commission will attend.

Mrs McNally, who is the spokesperson on research matters for the European Parliamentary Socialist Group, said, "Small firms are the key to regional prosperity, not the huge multi-nationals who are unlikely to bring their big factories here.  Much more realistic is the development of small firms that grow bigger, provided that they are sufficiently innovative and are based on state of the art technology."

"The EU is about to spend over £11 billion on research over the next four years, of which 15% will go to small firms."

The three European Commission Directors will explore mechanisms for ensuring maximum participation in this region.  Representatives of local small firms, who have previous experience of Framework Programmes, or those who are interested in future participation, are attending the conference.  In addition representatives of academic institutions, local government and European Information Centres will be present.

Mrs McNally concluded, "£100s of millions come into the region from the EU's research budget but not enough goes to crucial small firms.  I hope that the conference will do a lot to redress the balance."  

12 December 2001

Tory Euro MP accused of mischief-making

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has accused Conservative MEP, Robert Sturdy, of mischief-making and wanting to waste public money over his call for the setting up of a temporary European Parliamentary committee to look into the outbreak of BSE.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This is a crackpot scheme that is solely politically motivated and is mischief making of the worst sort.  I'm very surprised and disappointed that a fellow Member, whose work in an opposition group I normally respect, should take this approach."

"The UK government has already established a proper and thorough inquiry into BSE at considerable cost to the taxpayer.  The resources that Mr Sturdy wants the European Parliament to invest in this would be better spent on combating the problem itself.  I hope he'll give up this silly proposal."  
 

4 December 2001

Euro MP goes naked - chef, of course

Local Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has tried her hand at doing the job of the likes of Naked Chef, Jamie Oliver, Gary Rhodes and Keith Floyd, by giving a cookery demonstration with a difference - she did it all in Portuguese.  

This was part of the contribution made by Britain's Labour MEPs to the European Year of Languages and took place on Wednesday (28 November) evening in the Brussels parliament building.

Mrs McNally, who is already fluent in French, German and Spanish, has been going to Portuguese language classes in the parliament to make it easier to communicate with Euro MPs from that country.  She had persuaded several other Labour Euro MPs to also take up the Language Challenge - to learn a little of a new language - and Wednesday's event was a culmination of their efforts.  Eryl's cookery demonstration of the Portuguese national dish bacalhau - salt cod with potatoes and onions - was part of an evening that included poetry reading, singing and acting, all in languages newly learnt.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "This was a fun event with a serious message.  As Euro MPs we hear languages we do not understand on a daily basis.  Learning languages and opening up to other cultures makes us much more effective in the European Parliament and helps to dispel the perception of British MEPs as poor or lazy linguists."

"I hope that many of my constituents will take up the Language Challenge so that next time they're abroad on holiday or on business they can have a go at speaking the language of their hosts.  As well as the fun and feeling of achievement of learning a language it may result in holiday makers getting better service and for businesses it may be the edge on clinching an important deal."

"The government is certainly very committed to making us better linguists.  It is putting in place considerable funding to train more language teachers, to create more specialist language schools and to install more computers in schools and colleges to assist students in their language learning."

Eryl's performance was rewarded with a certificate that was presented by Teresa Tinsley, UK organiser of the European Year of Languages.  Click here to see photos.

26 June 2001

Euro MP promotes region's research capability to Greeks

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has recently returned from Greece where she was the guest of the Ministry of Development.  She was promoting research as a tool for economic development.  During her short stay she met with Greek government ministers and was a keynote speaker at a conference in Athens attended by over two hundred people.

Mrs McNally, who is the Co-ordinator for the Parliamentary Socialist Group on the Industry and Research Committee in the European Parliament, said, "The Director General for Research in the European Commission recommended to the Greek government that I should meet with them to talk about the importance of research.  Since this is my specialist area I was pleased to share my knowledge with my Greek colleagues."

"Greece's economy tends to major in things like agriculture, fisheries and tourism, and has the smallest research investment of all EU countries.  My message was that economic diversity could be achieved with the help of research."

"I don't agree with the EU spending millions on research into nuclear fusion, for example, but I do see the benefits to society of tackling issues like social exclusion, poverty, racism and the role of women."

"I told the conference that there are many outstanding research facilities in the East of England with which the Greeks could forge partnerships.  Several delegates made themselves known to me to say how much they'd enjoyed studying at universities in our region and how keen they were to see co-operation developed." 

5 March 2001

MEP condemns Euro sceptics 

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, addressed a meeting of the Peterborough Constituency Labour Party on Friday evening at Unity Hall. She condemned anti-Europeans for not allowing the city's residents the right to have a say on the Euro via a referendum. 

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England region, including Peterborough, in the European Parliament, told Labour Party members that extremist anti-Europeans want to stifle free speech and debate on the issue of the Euro. She said, "They are simply anti-democratic in their approach, wanting to keep people ignorant of the facts. Without a rational debate residents in Peterborough will not feel able to make a balanced decision about a crucially important subject - the introduction of a single currency." "This time next year holiday makers and members of the business community travelling abroad will find themselves handling the Euro in twelve EU countries, including Ireland. I 'm convinced this will be a big factor in demystifying the subject and in showing how advantageous it is to have a single currency." 

"I've asked members of the Peterborough Labour Party to speak to their friends, neighbours and colleagues to get over the positive message about the Euro. William Hague's attempt of keeping everyone in the dark on this issue must fail if straightforward factual information is provided for people to base their judgement. Everyone should remember that with a Labour government re-elected they get Gordon Brown's five strict tests on the Euro and, if met, they have their own say on the single currency via a referendum. Under the Tories they get no say at all."

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has been to Stockholm, the Swedish capital, to help Ministers prepare for their Presidency of the EU, which will run for the next six months.  Their main agenda - the three Es - consisted of enlargement, environment and employment.  As spokesperson for the Parliamentary Socialist Group on Trade and Industry, Eryl took a lead role in advising the Swedish Ministers on the parliamentary programme for the coming months.

Eryl said, "I met the Swedish Prime Minister, Goran Perssun, and many of his colleagues who are going to have a critical role in steering through European legislation.  I was very impressed with the Prime Minister and pleased to be told by him that he is anxious to keep social democratic ways of doing things, for example, in maintaining high protection for workers alongside industrial competition."

"For me the EU is very much about Member States learning from each other, and my visit to Sweden was a bit of an eye-opener when I found that half of Swedish MPs are women and a similar balance exists amongst Ministers.  There's no doubt in my mind that the EU should be helping Member States to work towards this 4th 'E' of equality."

"The new Swedish Presidency of the EU must push ahead with measures to create jobs and to generally improve the conditions of working people.  It also has to have grave concern for the environment and here my special interest is in renewable energy sources - pilot schemes are working well but much more needs investing in research.  The EU mustn't just be a club for rich countries and so welcoming in other states has to be a priority.  However, any would-be new members must meet the strict criteria for joining.  My main concern in this regard is for nuclear safety in some of the former Soviet Bloc."

"The discussions, however, in Stockholm signal a very positive Presidency over the next six months.  This is good news for local people

23 November 2000

Euro MP supports opening up Brussels' secrets

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is supporting moves in the European Parliament for new freedom of information proposals which will grant the right of access to most official documents from any institution in Brussels.

If the Parliament gets its way, official papers on issues such as BSE, radiation from mobile phones, and genetically modified organisms would be routinely available. So would information about border controls, the police's Europol network and all but the most sensitive papers on EU defence and foreign policy.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England region, said, "The support for these reforms by my Labour Party colleagues and I sends a clear signal to civil servants in the EU institutions that British people, along with their continental European neighbours, won't stand for a secrecy. If all dealings in the EU are transparent then all citizens will have greater faith in its institutions. Secrecy just breeds mistrust and is bad for democracy. It also gives a field day to malicious national newspapers who, as we've recently seen on the rapid reaction force, don't always present a true and objective picture but pedal their own Eurosceptic half-truths. 

9 November 2000

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, recently met Labour Party activists from across the East of England region at a conference in Biggleswade where she officially launched the European Parliamentary Labour Party's briefing papers under the banner '21^st Century Europe'. 

Members from Welwyn & Hatfield Constituency attended the event and our photo shows Bill Couzens from Welwyn Garden City with Mrs McNally.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said "So far we've produced four papers and others are set to follow, so that members of the public know where Labour Euro MPs stand on the important issues of the day."

"Most people expect to be given a fair chance in life; to achieve their potential, to provide for their families and to live safely and comfortably. That idea is at the heart of everything Labour Euro MPs do. Our briefing paper entitled 'Fairness at work and equal opportunities' outlines what we are doing to achieve this."

"I know from my post bag that lots of local people care about the environment and want politicians to do something about it. The EU brings European countries together so that we can fight in a concerted way to keep our fields green, the air clear and our water clean. We're telling people how we're going about this in our paper ' Protecting our environment'.

The briefing entitled 'Consumer protection: giving you a fair deal' sets out what we're doing for local people in their everyday lives. A single market means fair trade as well as free trade so if you buy something you have the right not to be ripped off. Labour Euro MPs are fully behind the consumer getting full protection under the law."

'Reforming the way Europe works' is our forth paper and its title shows clearly that Labour means business over making the EU more accountable, its procedures more effective and its priorities focussed on the issues that concern people."

If readers would like copies of these briefing papers, please click here to find out how to contact me.

1 November 2000

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, says it's no surprise that people here know so little about the EU and its institutions. She puts much of the blame on newspapers, such as the Mail and Telegraph, for failing to provide objective information and also says schools should make room in their curriculum for more civic education.

An official survey of public opinion recently disclosed that the British feel they are the least well informed about the EU's work. The EU's survey showed that, by almost every measure, the British were the most hostile towards Brussels, its institutions and its projects, but they also came bottom of the league when asked how much they knew about the EU.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region, said " When you see serious matters treated in such a flippant manner in some of the tabloids and extremely misleading articles in so-called 'quality' papers it's no wonder British people feel confused or uninformed about the EU."

"I am a frequent visitor to schools and whilst many make a real effort to educate their students about government at all its levels most just don't seem to be able to accommodate what might be called civics. Young people in school now will be the taxpayers of the future and they deserve to have an understanding of the institutions for which they will be paying."

"In order to help schools across the region I will be issuing an information pack which I hope will go some way to helping teachers deal with the issue of the European Union. In addition, I'm always happy to provide specific information to schools as well as individuals."

"Recent months have shown that the EU is far from perfect but my colleagues and I are working hard to establish transparency and accountability in all that its institutions do. Scare mongering in the papers won't help. If people are to form an objective view we need a balanced debate in the British media which informs voters and allows them to make a judgement based on fact not fiction."

"If readers want information about the EU they may click here to find out how to contact me. 

30 October 2000

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is supporting calls for European Union governments to be challenged to approve new freedom of information rules granting their citizens the right to see documents from any institution in Brussels. The challenge follows a vote in the Citizens' Rights Committee at the recent Strasbourg session of the European Parliament.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region, said " If EU Member States were to agree to this it would grant unprecedented access to all but the most sensitive defence and foreign policy papers. What we are trying to do amounts to a shift in culture for governments, but if Europe's citizens are to have accessible and accountable institutions change must come."

The proposals, which call for a public register of documents, a tight list of exemptions and access to papers held by all EU institutions, are being tabled in response to years of concern about a lack of transparency in the EU. 

11 October 2001

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the release of the final text on the draft Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.

The charter is a political statement of the civil and political rights and of the social principles shared by the EU Member States.

Mrs McNally, who is an MEP for the East of England region, said, "This is good news not only for people living locally but for all the people of the European Union. The Charter should help enormously to clarify the advantages for EU citizens and residents of working together for human rights. With the Human Rights Act for England and Wales coming into force now, it is a very good time for human rights.

I hope the Charter will help to bring home Europe to citizens in the East of England. It should also make national MPs more aware and involved in European issues. I am trying to bring national government and the European Parliament closer together by engaging in collaborative initiatives. An example of this is that, as Co-ordinator on trade and industry matters for the Socialist Group in the Parliament, I am meeting regularly with the Westminster Trade and Industry Committee.

As an EU Member State our commitment to human rights will be renewed through the Charter and for the first time spells it out for the EU institutions. 

The EU Member States have all signed the separate European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) which is one of the Copenhagen criteria for membership of the EU. Each also has its own national human rights legislation. The Human Rights Act for England and Wales came into force on 2 October. The EU Charter is entirely separate from the ECHR and the domestic Human Rights Acts. It is addressed to Community law. It gives no new tasks or competencies to the EU institutions and spells out for the first time their human rights obligations. The Charter anchors civil and political rights to the terms and case law of the ECHR. Economic, social and employment rights are tied to national law and practice.

Nothing will be binding that is not binding already. There are no new powers and no new costs for business.

Health

17 December 2002

Euro MP fact-finds in Argentina

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has recently returned from a six-day fact-finding mission in Argentina as a member of the European Parliament's ten strong Latin American delegation. The aim of the trip was to understand better the economic crisis in Argentina so that the European Parliament and the European Union can try to direct assistance to the country in more useful ways.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Principally we met with senior Argentinean government ministers and other leading figures in the country. These included the foreign minister, the finance minister, the deputy foreign minister and various EU ambassadors based in Buenos Aires."

"We didn't restrict ourselves to finding the government's views but also met with non-governmental organisations and representatives of civil society, including trade unionists, and with the head of a bank. A further useful discussion was held on the economic situation with some of Argentina's foremost journalists."

"Since much of our assistance is in grants to help social projects we met church leaders and groups involved with deprived rural/peripheral areas of the country as well as groups that aim to combat urban poverty."

"Our visit wasn't all talk as we visited a factory that had been reopened thanks to its own workforce, along with a farm to see the effects of the disastrous economic crisis."

"Anyone in the UK who might ask why the EU should give a little help to Argentina would have quickly seen the need for humanitarian aid at the hospital we visited in the city of Tucuman. This was chiefly caring for children suffering from malnutrition as a result of the economic problems."

"This was a long and tiring visit but extremely worthwhile. It not only allowed my parliamentary colleagues and I to have a better understanding of the ways in which we can help Argentina but gave some hope to the people we met that they are not forgotten in these very difficult times." 

13 October 2002

Euro MP calls for Miss World boycott

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has called on Miss England to boycott the Miss World finals to be held in Nigeria in December.  This is because a Nigerian woman has been sentenced to be stoned to death for having a child out of wedlock.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, is very involved in the Parliament's Women's Issues Committee.  She said, "I was horrified and disgusted at the sentence of death by stoning passed on Amina Lawal, a Nigerian women found guilty of bearing a child after her divorce. The sentence of the Sharia court is a most inhuman and degrading punishment and I condemn this abominable treatment of another woman."

"If Nigeria wants to be seen as a civilised country, capable of staging the finals of the Miss World competition, then it must uphold proper civil liberties and respect for human rights."

"Along with my British Labour MEP women colleagues I'm calling on all contestants to boycott the competition and since I represent an English region I'm particularly asking Miss England not to go to Nigeria.  I hope that she will refuse to take part and make it clear that she has taken her decision in protest at the sentence.  To do otherwise would, in my view, only give credence to a country many of whose states discriminate against women and punish them unjustly."

"There can be no beauty in having a nursing mother executed leaving her baby an orphan.  We must send a clear signal to the Miss World organisers that for as long as Anima Lawal faces stoning, there can be no reason to party in Nigeria."

"I'm sure many reading this will be shocked and moved by the case of Amina Lawal.  I hope people will contact the Nigerian Embassy in London to express their concern.  Information about Amina can be found on www.Amnesty.org " 

Euro MP backs sanctions on Zimbabwe

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs. Eryl McNally, has backed the decision by Foreign Ministers of EU Member States to impose sanctions on the Zimbabwe regime of President Mugabe and to recall its presidential election monitoring team.  These so-called 'smart' sanctions include a travel ban to EU countries and a freeze on the overseas assets of President Mugabe and about twenty close aids.  There will also be an embargo on the export of military and other equipment that might be used for internal repression.  The action follows the ejection from Zimbabwe of Pierre Schori, the Swedish diplomat who was leading the EU team of election observers.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "The EU is a big donor of aid to Zimbabwe and had every right to send observers to see that the presidential election is free and fair.  It was not for President Mugabe to pick and choose who is sent to carry out this task.  He's not only brought in draconian measures against his own and foreign press and media but also wants to dictate who is able to see at first hand the running of the election."

"The sanctions are not aimed at the people of Zimbabwe but at President Mugabe and his aids who seem able to jet around the world and dip into their private bank accounts while their people are in dire poverty."

"Mr Mugabe has presided over a failing economy in a country which had every chance of being a leader in southern Africa when he came to power over twenty years ago.  Worse still he's done little if anything to curb the extremists who have violently attacked black and white alike if they're even suspected of opposition to his Zanu PF government.  Democracy is failing in Zimbabwe and the EU must speak up for the people of that country."

"It's sad that we've decided to pull out our observers as that's another nail in the coffin of democracy.  However, better to take the action ourselves than give President Mugabe the pleasure of sending his officials to harass the delegation as he did in the case of Mr Schori - giving him just 24 hours to leave the country."  

29 November 2001

Euro MP backs breast implant safeguards

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed the announcement by the European Commission that it intends to put forward proposals for tough new rules to protect women who consider having breast implants.  These will be debated by the European Parliament and Ministers from the EU's fifteen Member States.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said "This is a victory for women and recognises the suffering that many have had to endure from surgery that went wrong.  I only hope that all women considering implant surgery, but in particular those who are young and impressionable, will think twice about this procedure.  There are too many horror stories concerned with what for most patients is merely a cosmetic preference.  I do, however, recognise that for some women there are sensitive physical and emotional issues related to this, as in the case of those who've had a mastectomy."

The European Commission's action comes in response to increasing expressions of health fears following a spate of serious illnesses among women who had the implant surgery.  The Commission wants legal changes to improve safety standards and to make research and advice to potential patients obligatory.  It hopes to amend an existing directive to include "essential safety requirements" for the surgery, including standards of design for medical equipment. Devices would have to be tested and EU and national authorities notified.

Mrs McNally added, "I'm pleased the Commission has finally acknowledged what my colleagues and I have been saying about the dangers of silicone implant surgery.  The proposed new regulations would require mandatory information kits to be distributed to would-be implant patients, including data on different types of silicone or saline implants.   These would also spell out the risks of rupture or bleeding and the implants' expected life span."

"Too many young women needlessly get drawn to this kind of surgery but are not very aware of the pitfalls.  The amended directive would only allow those aged 18 and over to be considered for the procedures and all would be offered independent counselling both before and after surgery."

The proposals also provide for compulsory national registers of every breast implant operation carried out in all 15 Member States, with long-term studies to establish the risks.

Mrs McNally concluded, " I hope that the amended legislation can be approved within a year and that it will help to make sure other women do not repeat the painful experience of implant surgery that so many have suffered."  

23 October 2001

"Look after your health and safety every week" says Euro MP

Labour Euro MP for the region, Mrs Eryl McNally, is backing Britain's Health and Safety Week which, this year, is focusing on accident prevention.  She hopes, however, that bringing it to people's attention this week will make for a healthier and safer life for local workers every week of the year.

Mrs McNally said, "Every year 5,500 people are killed across the EU in workplace related accidents and this represents a terrible personal tragedy.  In addition a staggering 146 million working days are lost through accidents.  This represents millions of pounds of lost income, and businesses often find themselves in unnecessary difficulties because simple precautions were not taken."

"This special week of events should promote awareness and best practice amongst workers and their companies.  I know from talking not only to trade unionists but constituents in general that they consider this issue as the most important one for employers to address."

"I get to visit lots of small and medium sized companies in the region and they seem to have these issues covered but there has been a disturbing increase in accidents in this sector nationally. This week's events across the UK and the EU are a reminder of the work which still has to be done to reduce accidents and ill health at work."  

22 March 2001
Euro MP helps in crack down on breast implants
 Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is giving her backing to proposals for health and safety regulations on breast implants.  

These will include:

* Independent pre and post surgery counselling, with women being given advice prior to surgery by someone other than the surgeon involved.
* A register of qualified surgeons
* National registers of every operation carried out in each of the EU's 15 member states, with surveillance and monitoring of those undergoing surgery.
* Large-scale studies to establish the health risks of implants.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "As a former member of the Women's' Issues Committee in the European Parliament this matter is very much at the top of my agenda.  There remains a very urgent need for proper supervision of all aspects of this practice and I hope the whole Parliament will support these measures."

"If carried through, the proposals being brought before the European Parliament will be a victory for the hundreds of women throughout the UK and Europe who have worked tirelessly to make sure other women do not repeat their painful experience of silicone implant surgery."

"The health of local women, along with that of thousands across Europe, is put at risk by an implant industry which has not always maintained appropriate standards of information and safety."

"I'll be glad to see a legal age limit established and the requirement for independent counselling as too many young women are pressured into surgery by a glib fashion culture and the profit motive".

"The need for a comprehensive register of qualified plastic surgeons and a mandatory national register of all implant operations should sort out the wheat from the chaff and allow for follow up to any problem cases."

Mrs McNally would like to hear readers' views on this subject, particularly if they've had this kind of surgery.  Please click here to find out how to contact her by post or email.

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, will support moves in the European Parliament this week to force the tobacco industry to print graphic health warnings, covering almost 1/3 of the surface, on Europe's cigarette packets. 

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England region, said, "People locally tell me they'd never have started the smoking habit had proper information about the health risks been available. They're now hooked on something that kills half of all long-term smokers with many dying in middle age, which means they lose 20 to 25 years of life." 

"Multi national tobacco companies have for too long managed to obscure the health warning they were previously required to display. This new law will get labels and picture on cigarette packets that will graphically reflect the real dangers and cost of smoking." 

"In addition the new legislation will outlaw the use of misleading phrases such as 'mild' and 'low tar' as these have taken people for a ride by suggesting they're safer when in reality they're just as damaging to health as conventional cigarettes.  I'm giving my full support to this new legislation. When I see the suffering to individuals and the cost to society, for example in terms of taking up hospital beds, this can't come too soon." 

Note to editors on the Tobacco Directive:

The existing rules Current EU legislation requires cigarette health warnings to cover a minimum of 4% of the pack - Member States have the option to go further and the UK opted for 6%. The new rules On December 12th in Strasbourg, Euro-MPs will vote to impose tough new restrictions on the tobacco industry that will: 

Increase the size of cigarette health warning labels to cover almost 1/3 of the pack. 

Ban the use of misleading product descriptors such as 'low tar', 'light' and 'mild.' 

Require health warnings to be printed in black on a white background - as opposed to the current system that requires only "contrasting colours." 

Introduce picture health warnings on cigarette packs to illustrate the damage which smoking does to health. 

Reduce the tar content in cigarettes from 12mg to a maximum of 10 mg per cigarette and introduce an EU ceiling for nicotine of 1 mg and of carbon monoxide of 10 mg. 

Apply the new EU standards to cigarettes exported from the EU. 

What next? 

This EU Tobacco Directive has to be approved by EU Member State Governments before coming into force, but the European Parliament has full co-legislative powers in drafting and approving this legislation - ultimately it can block or reject the new law if it is not satisfied with the content of the final text. 

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, says the decision to overturn Europe's tobacco ad ban is a terrible disappointment after she and her colleagues had battled for over ten years in the European Parliament to get in place the 1997 Directive banning the advertisement of tobacco products.

Following legal action by the tobacco manufacturers the European Court of Justice has ruled the Directive as unlawful.

Mrs Eryl McNally, who is an MEP for the East of England region, said, "The Directive would have banned billboard advertising of tobacco by July 2001, newspaper and magazine advertising by 2002 and sports sponsorship by 2003 with an exemption for "world" sports such as Formula One until 2006.

The big tobacco companies make millions in profits every year so were not short of funds to promote their legal challenge that succeeded on a technicality. However, by overturning the law, the tobacco industry may delay this ban, but they will not kill it.

The medical profession* has estimated that almost 100 million people died of tobacco related disease in the 20^th century and their projections suggest that it could be as much as a billion this century. The thought of all the suffering that this has entailed for individuals and their families doesn't bare thinking about. I will do all I can in the European Parliament to pass new legislation that will stick, although I know this may take several years.

One ray of hope for British people is that the Labour Government committed itself to ban tobacco advertising and if time can be made in the parliamentary timetable this could be possible. For the health and welfare of our citizens this ban must come sooner than later. 

Labour Euro MP for the East of England, Mrs Eryl McNally, has hit out at those MEPs who refused in the recent Parliament session to back legislation to require shock pictures and messages to appear on cigarette packets.

Mrs McNally said, "Although I was pleased that legislation went through requiring health warning to take up at least 50% of the surface of cigarette packets I was very disappointed that moves were narrowly defeated to go all the way and have graphic pictures as well. These would have helped in warning would-be smokers, particularly young people, of the life threatening dangers involved in smoking.

This is yet another case of the rich and powerful tobacco lobby getting its way in trying to keep from it customers the real cost of smoking." 

Eryl McNally, Labour Euro MP for this region, has given her full backing to legislation to impose tough new restrictions on the tobacco industry. New rules to go before the Parliament later this month (June) will include increasing the size of health warnings on cigarette packets to cover over half of the surface.

Mrs McNally said, "It’s so sad and such a waste of life that half of long term smokers will eventually be killed by tobacco with half of these dying in their middle age so losing many years of life."

"It’s a scandal that with their huge financial resources tobacco companies have been able to bend the rules on warnings and by using misleading phrases like ‘mild’, ‘light’ and ‘low tar’. The latter have been promoted as ‘healthier’ but still kill. Such abuses will be brought to an end by this legislation to which I shall be giving my full backing."

The Tobacco Directive - The existing rules

Current EU legislation requires cigarette health warnings to cover a minimum of 4% of the pack - Member States have the option to go further and the UK opted for 6%.

The new rules

Euro-MPs have voted to impose tough new restrictions on the tobacco industry.

Increase the size of cigarette health warning labels to cover half the pack (40% of the front and 60% of the back).

Ban the use of misleading product descriptors such as 'low tar', 'light' and 'mild.'

Require health warnings to be printed in black on a white background - as opposed to the current system that requires only "contrasting colours."

Reduce the tar content in cigarettes to a maximum of 10 mg per cigarette and introduce an EU ceiling for nicotine of 1 mg and for carbon monoxide of 10 mg.

Apply the new EU standards to cigarettes exported from the EU.

What next?

The new rules will go to the European Parliament’s full session in June for approval.

The European Parliament has full co-legislative powers in drafting and approving this legislation - ultimately it can block or reject the new law if it does not like the final text.

Local Labour MEP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is seeking to bring to the public’s attention two issues concerning women. She is warning about silicone gel breast implants and the trafficking of women for prostitution.

Recently Mrs McNally sat on the European Parliament’s Scientific Panel to deal with a petition from a women’s campaign group on the dangers on silicone gel breast implants.

Mrs McNally said, "Firstly I’d like people to know that any individual or group can send in a petition to the European Parliament. It will get considered and could lead to new legislation.

From the evidence presented in the recent petition many women are finding serious difficulties following breast implants. I would like to see compulsory health warnings given by clinics before women submit to this kind of surgery."

"I would also urge young women considering breast enlargement to check on the implications of possible complications from this surgery. If any readers have experienced problems with silicon gel implants I’d like to hear from them."

Mrs McNally is a member of the Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Issues and information reaching it suggests that the trafficking of women for prostitution is on the increase.

She said, "Often young women in Eastern Europe, Africa and South America are seduced by false promises of well paid legitimate jobs in Western Europe. Unscrupulous operators lure them into prostitution and many girls are forced to do it for fear of violence or destitution. Every large town in this region has is prostitutes and I would ask the men that use these services just to consider the circumstances under which their victims were made to travel abroad and how they’d feel if it were their daughter."

24 March 2000

"Let’s avoid the heart-ache" says Euro MP

Local Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has come out strongly in support of the government’s plans to drive up standards in the NHS and as part of that to tackle coronary disease. Mrs McNally suffered the double blow of losing both her parents to heart disease in their mid-fifties.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament said, "Thousands of people are dying every year in this region from coronary disease and I just don’t want to see that waste of life or local people going through the same heart-ache as I experienced losing my parents at such a young age."

"This is the country’s biggest killer and I welcome the Labour government’s determination and commitment through extra funding to cut these deaths and suffering, much of which is preventable."

"On top of the £50 million already set aside for 3,000 extra heart operations by 2002, the government is providing a further £50 million to help tackle coronary heart disease. Its blueprint aims to cut the death rate by 40% by the year 2010. Included in the plans are more ‘quit-smoking’ clinics, defibrillators in public places, readily available clot-busting drugs and fast-track chest clinics for sufferers of angina and other disorders."

"The government’s crusade on this crucial issue is being headed up by a top heart specialist. The blueprint is ambitious and will take time to implement but it will be well worth it for the heart-ache and suffering it will save."

Human genetics

7 December 2001

Euro MP rejects biotechnology report

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted against the biotechnology report brought before the recent European Parliament session (29 November) in Brussels.  This dealt with stem cell research and the use of embryos for research or genetic testing.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "I had served on the temporary committee on human genetics and other new technologies in modern medicine, but when the report was drafted I found it muddled on several points and it managed to offend all points of view.  Because there is no overall majority in the Parliament Euro MPs are always working for a consensus but on this it just wasn't possible."

"I am in favour of stem cell research because of its potential benefits to sufferers from devastating diseases and that is why I supported the proposals for the EU research programme that included this under certain conditions."

"The issues surrounding the ethical, legal, economic and social implications of human genetics are very complex and although we didn't achieve a clear outcome the process has been worthwhile as we have collected a great deal of invaluable evidence.  What's more this has been done through public hearings and open and democratic debate and this brings it to the attention of all the citizens of Europe."

"I would like to see a joint and coherent approach across the EU as research is proceeding rapidly in this area.  However, paramount for me is that human dignity and the integrity of a woman’s body should remain central."  

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has been invited to serve on a special European Parliament committee to examine new developments in the field of human genetics and other new technologies in modern medicine. She is the spokesperson on research for the Parliamentary Socialist Group and will be their lead member on this new committee set up to report in twelve month's time.
The committee will be responsible for compiling as complete an inventory as possible of new and potential developments in human genetics and of their uses, as well as examining the ethical, legal, economic and social problems posed.
Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England region, said "Publicity over Dolly the sheep has starkly brought this serious issue to the attention of the public throughout the EU's fifteen Member States.  It is right and proper that their elected representatives should make a detailed analysis so that they may assume their political responsibilities, examining and recommending to what extent the public interest requires action."
"I am very pleased to have been appointed to this important committee and hope to be able to play my part in providing the Parliament and other Community institutions with some direction on this very complex
issue.  I would greatly appreciate the views of readers on this subject."

15 September 2000

Mrs Eryl McNally, Labour Euro MP for the East of England region, says the European Parliament's recent call for a ban on all human cloning is ill conceived and if heeded would slow the pace of research into treatment for hitherto incurable diseases.

Mrs McNally said, "I think this is a retrograde step as scientific progress in human cell technology offers new opportunities in pharmaceutical and medical research, health care and the treatment of disease. Clearly there have to be strict safeguards but this could offer hope to millions of sufferers.

When Westminster debates the bill to allow scientists to extract cells from young embryos and use them to grow skin and other tissue MPs will have a free vote according to their conscience. No rational person wants the cloning of babies, but there is a growing global consensus that good could come out of 'therapeutic cloning'.

We must distinguish between the reality of the situation and the spectres created by those opposed to any form of biotechnology. I'm sure those working with patients suffering from untreatable diseases like Parkinson's, Huntingdon's, Alzheimer's and some cancers will welcome this development." 

International relations

Labour Euro MP for the region, Mrs Eryl McNally, voted in the recent European Parliament session in Strasbourg on proposals for common asylum rules across the EU.

The proposals include an EU-wide definition for refugees, plans for a "one stop shop" procedure for processing asylum claims, plans to harmonise reception conditions for asylum seekers by establishing EU-wide common minimum standards and the establishment of minimum basic rights for refugees on access to welfare, housing, education, health care etc.

Mrs McNally said, "If we can move forward with this legislation then we'll have common standards so that all EU countries are likely to be perceived as giving equal and fair treatment to refugees.  This should mean a more balanced distribution of asylum claims throughout the EU."

She added, "Alongside this we must do more to deal with the root causes that lead to people seeking asylum and becoming refugees.  The EU continues to assist developing countries with aid and helping to create peace and stability across the world.  I'm committed to encouraging this process." 

Euro MP declares against US missile defence system

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has signed a European Parliament written declaration opposing National Missile Defence (NDM) recently announced by President Bush.
Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "I think it is very dangerous for local people along with those across the other Member States of the EU that the USA are looking to proliferate the technology of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles.  NMD violates the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and risks provoking a new arms race.  It also risks causing other nuclear powers to react by increasing the size and power of their arsenals."
"In signing the declaration I'm calling for an impact assessment of NMD upon each EU country's security interests.  I'm also asking Member States to initiate a policy of persuasive diplomacy, negotiations and economic incentives, and if necessary sanctions, towards ‘states of concern’ - those countries which may pose a nuclear threat."
"I'm convinced that mutual assured destruction is not the way to run international affairs and that we should be replacing it with a less threatening model."  

20 April 2001

Euro MP welcomes lifting of US trade sanctions

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has welcomed news that as a result of recent negotiations with the European Commission the USA is going to lift its trade sanctions on many goods produced by local manufacturers.  Sanctions were imposed when the World Trade Organisation ruled that the EU was giving unfair advantage to banana growers in the Caribbean.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Just like France and Spain we here in the UK have great historical ties with many of the banana-producing islands.  Unlike most of the US owned plantations those in the Caribbean are very small and the farmers, already relatively poor, depend on the EU for their meagre livelihood.  If we were to abandon them most would end up in dire poverty or turn to drug trading to make a living.

"I've always felt that the bit of preferential treatment given to these producers by the EU was very justifiable but sadly the WTO didn't agree.  This led to the imposition by the USA of indiscriminate sanctions against several companies in this region and that was simply unfair.  I made my own representations to the European Commissioner, Pascal Lamy, and I'm glad that a compromise has now been reached."

"I know that stores like the Co-op now stock 'fair trade' bananas so shoppers may purchase these knowing that a decent price has been paid to the producer.  I hope local people will look out for Caribbean bananas which mainly go under the names of Geest, 5-Isles, JP and Fyffes."

"Even though the US doesn't grow bananas it pushed this issues to the limit and I'm sorry for local firms that innocently got caught up in the dispute.  I hope that they'll quickly be able to re-establish their export market in the US."  

Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is seeking an urgent meeting with one of the country's leading drug companies to persuade them to allow the import of cheaper drugs to places like South Africa where normal prices can't be afforded.  She is approaching Glaxo Smith-Kline to ask them to withdraw from the legal case currently before the court in the South African capital, Pretoria.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England region in the European Parliament, said, "This court case deals with issues of fundamental justice - the right of poor people to have access to affordable medicines.  For example, there are currently 4 million people infected with HIV/Aids in South Africa and the Government simply can't afford to give them essential drugs."

"I understand that the pharmaceutical companies see themselves fighting to maintain the right to patent their drugs but since countries like South Africa can't afford their products anyway it seems non-nonsensical to stop them importing or producing affordable lifesaving versions."

"I am going to urge Glaxo Smith-Kline - one of the companies involved and one that has sites in this region - to withdraw their legal case and allow poor countries the right to provide proper healthcare for their people."  

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, recently met former Pakistani Prime Minister and Leader of the Pakistan People's Party, Benazir Bhutto. The meeting, organised by one of Mrs McNally's Labour colleagues, took place at the European Parliament in Brussels and gave Ms Bhutto the chance to update MEPs on the situation in Pakistan.

Mrs McNally, who represents Watford, as part of her East of England constituency, said " I've met Ms Bhutto before and I am always impressed with the clear manner in which she puts over the complex issues concerned with Pakistan and it neighbouring territories."

"Although a Member of the European Parliament, I know local people expect me to take an interest in matters further afield. Fact-finding visits like this are always welcome in the Parliament."

I am staunchly in favour of removing military dictatorships wherever they may be and in the case of Pakistan wish to see a quick return to democratic government. It has been useful for Benazir Bhutto to engage in dialogue with European politicians so that both sides may be better informed. However, any decisions to be made have to be taken by the people of Pakistan, India and Kashmir."

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has recently returned from a study tour of South Africa where she was able to see first hand the assistance being given to projects by the European Union. Her visit also focused particularly on women working in science, which is one of her specific areas of responsibility in the European Parliament.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region, said "As the Parliamentary Socialist Group's co-ordinator on energy and research, as well as the British MEPs' representative on the Women's Committee, I was very keen to see projects in this field and particularly women in science. As well as meeting people in the energy and sectors I took the opportunity to study what's happening on race and gender equity."

Mrs McNally's itinerary was co-ordinated by the South African government and during her stay she met with the Minister for Art, Culture, Science and Technology. At this meeting Mrs McNally began planning a joint EU-South African conference to take place in Brussels early next year.

She added, "It was very encouraging to visit a country which only a few years ago had a racist regime but now gives opportunity to all of its citizens. The universities and technicons (like our old polys) are filled with able black South Africans who will help to deliver the country's economic salvation."

One project that Eryl visited had a regional flavour as it involved a group helping small businesses with the assistance of the Hertfordshire Business Link.

Eryl continued, "The EU has concluded a trade agreement with South Africa and is funding many programmes which will assist economic recovery. The future of the country, however, will continue to depend on the maintenance of international help and goodwill for some time to come."

"A severe blight on their future success was clearly exemplified by the visit I paid to an EU-funded project on HIV education aimed at informing people of the risk of AIDS which sadly is rife throughout the country. I hope Member States of the EU and others will ease up on restrictions on the cheap reproduction of drugs, as currently HIV sufferers in South Africa are simply priced out of getting hold of appropriate medication."

Mrs McNally concluded, "Clearly it will be difficult to quickly put right years of exploitation but my impressions were of an exciting country which, with assistance, will overcome its problems. My trip didn't allow for any tourism but I hope to return to take time to explore what is a very beautiful and interesting country and would commend others to do likewise." 

13 February 2002

Statement by Mrs Eryl McNally, MEP, on education green paper

"There are some interesting ideas contained in the government's green (consultative) paper on education and I look forward to considering them and making my responses.  However, I am completely opposed to the proposal of dropping a compulsory modern foreign language for students over the age of fourteen.  We would be completely out of step with our neighbours in mainland Europe and would only increase the view held by many of them that we are an insular nation.  Perhaps more importantly it would be bad for business and jobs."

"The proposals have already brought expressions of concern from representatives of industry, who see the benefits of having a workforce that can operate in more than one language, and from several European Ambassadors.  Most of our exports are to mainland Europe, as well as our holiday destinations, so it makes sense that we equip our young people with language skills.  If our export business is to develop we need people in the workplace who can communicate effectively with would-be customers."

"It's true that there is a shortage of properly trained foreign language teachers in secondary schools but I'm sure the government is addressing that issue as more young people come forward to join the profession.  Introducing an entitlement to foreign language teaching in primary schools is to be encouraged but, however good the promised training is, the teachers will in most cases have other teaching commitments and may find it difficult to add yet another string to their bow."

"If young people are given the choice of dropping a foreign language at 14 plus (and remember they make the decision when they are only 13 plus) it's possible that many students will opt out, irrespective of their ability, just because other new courses are on offer.  I'm far from convinced that the primary school entitlement will compensate for learning at 14 plus and beyond."

"I hope readers will respond to this consultative paper."

Mrs McNally is a former teacher and Ofsted Inspector in modern foreign languages.  

25 September 2001

"Join the Language Challenge," says Euro MP

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is encouraging local people to join her in accepting the 'Language Challenge' by learning another language.  Although fluent in French, German and Spanish, Mrs McNally is leading her MEP colleagues by example in learning another language, in her case Portuguese.  This is because 2001 has been declared the European Year of Languages by the European Union and the Council of Europe.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "The UK will join forty-four other European countries in celebrating and promoting languages on Wednesday 26 September which is the official 'European Day of Languages'.  Several of my British Labour MEP colleagues and my staff in Brussels are making an effort, via lessons in the European Parliament, to learn a language."

"We've committed ourselves to show our colleagues what we've learnt.  In my case I've got 'til early November to perfect a short cookery demonstration in Portuguese.  As well as the serious point to language learning this should be a fun activity and my part should be entertaining, if only for my Portuguese colleagues!"

The 'European Day of Languages' will provide a focus for the activities of many of the 850 institutions, businesses, organisations and individuals in the UK that have registered their participation in the European Year of Languages so far this year. All the activities support the aims of the Year, which are to celebrate linguistic diversity, and promote the messages that learning languages brings important cultural and economic opportunities, and that everyone can do it, regardless of age or background.

Mrs McNally added, "Not only can language learning be very enjoyable, it can open so many doors; for instance to new friendships and better community harmony as well as to business and cultural opportunities.  As a nation we lag behind our European partners in terms of language knowledge, so I hope my call will be an encouragement to people in the local area to take up the challenge."

As UK National Co-ordinator of the Year, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching and Research (CILT) is inviting people of all ages and from all sectors (education, cultural, business and the professions) to participate in the Year.  Its aim is to promote language capability and the appreciation of the importance of foreign language learning.  CILT will contribute to the day’s celebrations by holding the awards ceremony for winners of this year’s European Award for Languages, which will be hosted at the Spanish Embassy, London.

Personal

The ceremony took place on Friday 6 December in the French Ambassador's London residence. The Ambassador, Monsieur Gérard Errera, joked that usually when the French authorities decide to bestow an honour upon an eminent person, they do so for only one reason, but in Mrs McNally's case there were at least two reasons for making her a Chevalier dans la Légion d’Honneur, so perhaps he should be giving her two medals instead of one.

Commenting on her recent decoration, Mrs McNally said, "It was a great honour to receive such an award from the French national government. I was very proud to stand in front of family, friends and British and European parliamentarians and to be acknowledged not only for my current work in the European Parliament but also for thirty years' working with young people and teachers. I was particularly pleased to know that I am the first British MEP to receive this medal."

"I am a frequent visitor to France, and I don't just mean the monthly trip to the Strasbourg Parliament, and I always try to share my love of France, its people and culture. I'd like to feel that my colleagues still at the 'chalk face' will feel that just a little bit of this award is theirs too, as I know how hard they work to give the gift of language learning that opens so many doors to a richer life."

The Ambassador said that French members of the European Parliament greatly appreciated Mrs McNally's constructive and open approach to discussions and the friendly relations she had established with them. He paid particular tribute to her involvement in the drawing up of the Research and Development Programme. The ambassador also expressed his country's appreciation for the expertise she had provided, especially under the European Union's French Presidency.

Acknowledging that Mrs McNally spoke French perfectly, the Ambassador went on to thank her for actively contributing to a better understanding between Britain and France, particularly when it comes to learning modern languages. He noted that Mrs McNally had been a modern languages teacher as well as a schools inspector for modern languages. The Ambassador said that encouraging a better knowledge of languages was a way of promoting cultural diversity and a common understanding and acceptance of the two countries' respective national characteristics within Europe. 

Because business goes on late into the night her friends in the Parliamentary Socialist Group decided to give her a 'rolling concert' at which members turned up and performed only to dash off if need be.

The concert consisted of readings and the singing of traditional and socialist songs.  John Hume from Northern Ireland sang three songs including one about Derry - 'A Town I Love So Well".  Commissioner Neil Kinnock and MEP wife Glenys sang with another Welsh member, Eluned Morgan, and dragged in Eryl to sing a traditional song in their mother tongue.  German, Swedish and Italian delegations formed choirs to sing songs from their respective countries.  The concert ended with the singing of 'Je ne regrette rien' by the Euro MP for West Midlands, and former Eastenders actor, Michael Cashman.

Eryl, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "As it turned out there were thirty-odd present all the time but not necessarily the same people.  It got a bit bizarre at times with announcements that various performers were on their way.  I know many people had meetings to attend so it was very kind of colleagues to go to all this trouble to celebrate my birthday."

29 December 2000
There is a Doctor in the Euro house
Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has been awarded an honorary
degree by the University of Hertfordshire.  The degree of Doctor of Laws
was conferred upon her by the university's Vice-Chancellor, Professor
Neil Buxton, at a ceremony in St Albans Abbey.
The degree was conferred as recognition of Dr McNally's distinguished
service both in her career in education and in the political world.
Before becoming a Member of the European Parliament in 1994 she had been
a teacher of modern languages, an advisory teacher and a school
inspector.
For over 20 years Dr McNally had served as an elected member of all
three tiers of local government.  She was Vice-Chair of Education and
Deputy Leader of the Labour Group on Hertfordshire County Council.  Soon
after becoming an MEP she elected to act as the spokesperson on energy
and research for the Parliamentary Socialist Group.  She now carries out
a similar role on the Committee for Industry, External Trade, Research
and Energy.  In the year prior to becoming one of the MEPs for the East
of England Region she was Deputy Leader of the European Parliamentary
Labour Party.
The award citation also paid tribute to Dr McNally's substantial
contribution, in both time and energy, to a variety of causes.  These
have included being a school governor and working in the voluntary
sector with the Red Cross, the CAB and the Community Health Council.
The University recorded its thanks and those of the county council for
the efforts made by Dr McNally to secure funds from the European
Commission.  In addition her keen interest in the work and future
development of the university were also acknowledged along with her help
in accessing the European Social Fund. 
The full degree citation follows:
Vice-chancellor
It is my pleasure to present for the award of an honorary degree of
Doctor of Laws (LL.D)
Mrs Eryl McNally MEP
And the citation reads as follows:
Today we honour someone who has served with distinction both in her
career - that of a teacher - and in the political world. Eryl McNally
received her secondary schooling at Newbridge Grammar School in
Monmouthshire and subsequently studied modern languages at Bristol
University before training as a teacher at University College, Swansea.
She has lived for most of her adult life in Hertfordshire and taught for
twenty years in schools in the county, finally as head of modern
languages at St Michael's RC School in Garston. She then spent eight
years as a member of the Buckinghamshire County Council education
advisory service.
As befits someone born into a political environment - her father was an
MP - Eryl McNally became infected from an early age with the political
bug. For over twenty years she served as an elected member, firstly at
parish and district council level, and then on Hertfordshire County
Council where she was Vice-chair of Education, deputy leader of the
Labour group and her party's education spokesperson. In 1994 she was
elected a member of the European Parliament, representing Bedfordshire
and Milton Keynes and, in 1999, following the introduction of elections
based on a proportional representation system, was returned as one of
the representatives for the East of England. During her time in the
Parliament she has served as deputy leader of the European Parliamentary
Labour Party, has been vice-chair of the European Parliament's Research
and Energy Committee and is currently the Socialist Group's
co-ordinator/spokesperson on the Committee for Industry, External Trade,
Research and Energy. She is also the European Parliamentary Labour Party
spokesperson on women's rights, President of EUFORES (European forum for
renewable energy sources) and a Director of the National Energy
foundation.
A recital of this nature does not, of course, encapsulate, by itself,
the commitment shown and the successes achieved in a long and
distinguished period of public life. Nor can it acknowledge adequately
the substantial contribution, in both time and energy, to a variety of
causes - for example as a school and college governor, and, in the
voluntary sector, with the Red Cross, the CAB, the Community Health
Council, - not to mention the six months she spent as an HCC home help!
Neither can it pay sufficient tribute to the work, most of it unsung,
which is carried out on behalf of an MEP's constituents. Both the County
Council and the University have been grateful for the attempts made on
their behalf to access the funds which the European Commission has at
its disposal. The University has been particularly grateful for the keen
interest she has shown in the work of the University and its future
development and for the help she has been able to give us in accessing
the European Social Fund.
An occasion of this nature enables us, as a University, to place on
record its appreciation of the achievements of a resident of the county
who, through her involvement in public affairs, has done much to effect
improvement on a range of issues. It also provides the opportunity to
confer on her an award which, we hope, will convey some recognition of
the esteem in which she is held. Vice-Chancellor, it is my pleasure to
invite you to confer the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws on Mrs Eryl
McNally MEP.

Social issues

19 November 2002

Euro MP backs caravan park dwellers

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, is backing the campaign of the residents at Woodside Caravan Park in Hatch to be allowed to stay on the site.  She recently visited the park with Labour District Councillor Paul Griffiths and met the families living there.

Mrs McNally, who represents the East of England Region in the European Parliament, said, "Although some families on the site own the land on which they live, the Conservative controlled district council seems to be hiding behind the subtleties of planning law to throw these people off the site into a roadside existence.  Sadly I get the impression that there is some anti-gypsy feeling here and to evict the residents would be a grave injustice."

"From my visit to the site it's clear the families are very settled there and take a pride in their homes and their surroundings.  Although they've been travelling people, the residents are integrating themselves and their families into the local community, and at the same time preserving their valuable heritage.  All they want to do now is to settle down with their families and stay in one place.  This must be far better for the education of the children and the health and welfare of all of the residents."

"I'm writing to both Mid-Beds District Council and the Beds County Council asking them to do all they can to avoid this catastrophe for the lives of these very decent people.  Local councils surely must be able to look after their residents in a more caring way.  If planning law means the residents have to move the councils must ensure that they have somewhere to go." 

28 October 2002

Euro MP hosts inter-faith groups

Local Labour Euro MP, Mrs Eryl McNally, has hosted a hearing in the European Parliament in Brussels for inter-faith groups from the EU's fifteen Member States.  The UK delegation included the Luton Council of Faiths and Grassroots.

The hearing (held on 14 October) was an opportunity for constituents to give their views and to share their experiences on plural communities before an audience of MEPs and European Commission officials.  Issues addressed included how to strengthen civil society and to give a feeling of belonging and involvement to minority groups.  Affirming cultural differences and acknowledging that these enrich people's lives was also discussed.

Mrs McNally, who is Labour MEP for the East of England Region, covering Luton, said, "I was pleased and privileged to host and chair the Brussels hearing.  It's always good for those involved in drafting laws to hear what constituents think.  It was particularly good to have members of Luton Council of Faiths and Grassroots speaking as they come from my own constituency, and moreover a part that I know well and have visited many times."

David Cowling of Grassroots, said, "Eryl made a strong contribution to the session and showed that this is an issue about which she is personally concerned."

He added, "The hearing wasn't focused on a specific agenda but was concerned with a political process that may be getting weaker set against a background of the extreme right trying to fill a vacuum.  We were expressing our view that, working together, plural communities can find solutions for living in harmony." 

Details of the hearing will appear on www.grassrootsluton.org.uk   

Note to Editor:

David Cowling, who was part of the Grassroots delegation to Brussels, may be contacted on 01582 416946