Liz Lynne MEP News Stories (West Worcestershire Liberal Democrats)

Jan 25, 2012:
- Liz Lynne hosts top level seminar on cancer care for older people
  Liz Lynne MEP is congratulated on her work on age and cancer issues since 1999 by Alojz Peterle MEP at the joint Cancer Care seminar at the Parliament in Brussels. Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne hosted a top level seminar with cancer experts on best practice in controlling the disease in older people at the European Parliament in Brussels on Tuesday (Jan 24th). Among topics on the agenda were the latest reports on a Dutch initiative for comprehensive geriatric assessment for older people diagnosed with cancer and moves to promote healthier, active ageing. The event was a Joint Meeting of the Parliament's Intergroup on Ageing and Intergenerational Solidarity and MEPs Against Cancer. Liz Lynne, who hosted the meeting, is Vice President of MEPs Against Cancer (MAC) and co-chair of the Age Intergroup. The West Midlands MEP is standing down from the Parliament next week. In her closing speech looking back at her work on cancer care and age issues since 1999 Liz challenged the meeting on the key future challenges to improve cancer care in an ageing population. Liz Lynne said: "I welcome this important meeting. I have been working on age issues since I was first elected and co-founded MEPs Against Cancer in 2005. "As we age, our immune system becomes less effective and cancer becomes more common. Following recent medical advances cancer is now often a chronic, long term but survivable condition in an ageing population. "I worked hard to keep age in the Employment Directive of 2000. That links with the work I have done on countering discrimination in the workplace for those with long term illness and underlines the need for the Equal Treatment Directive so we can tackle the lack of equal access to goods and services, including health care. "Another key priority which I hope to see rapid progress is an EU Code of Conduct on long term care, which Parliament backed in a resolution in September 2010. "I have raised numerous Parliamentary Questions on issues of unfair discrimination and lack of equal access to health care for older people and of course this crosses over to cancer care. "For MAC, tackling the difference in cancer survival rates in different member states has been a key campaign and we have also long pressed for more equal access to cancer screening. "In April 2010 I was pleased that Parliament backed my written Declaration on Breast Cancer calling for the implementation of EU guidelines for screening and specialist treatment for the disease." "Sharing best practice is vital, both in promoting healthier lifestyles such as the campaign by the EuropaDonna Breast Health Coalition and adopting the best screening techniques as outlined in the Colorectal Cancer Declaration of December 2010. "Last September I hosted a conference on continuing cancer care in Brussels with the European Cancer Leagues. That event heard growing evidence that millions of older cancer patients face unequal access to treatment and serious discrimination in the workplace because of their condition. "At that event I launched a declaration calling for a definition of disability as set out by the UN Convention on the rights of people with disabilities, to be implemented in all member states and applied to all existing and proposed EU anti-discrimination legislation. "An EU-wide definition of disability that includes long term illness such as cancer would be an important step to addressing this serious discrimination affecting older people. "For further progress tackling discrimination on all grounds, it is also essential that the Equal Treatment Directive which I have campaigned for so many years is unblocked from the Council of Ministers and put into law." The meeting also included a special vote of thanks to Liz Lynne at her last Intergroup meeting before standing down, which was proposed by Alojz Peterle MEP. ENDS Caption: Liz Lynne MEP is congratulated on her work on age and cancer issues since 1999 by Alojz Peterle MEP at the joint Cancer Care seminar at the Parliament in Brussels. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 17, 2012:
- Euro MP welcomes Obama stand against human trafficking
  West Midlands Euro MP Liz Lynne has hailed a move by President Obama to declare January as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month as a welcome sign of increased American support for the battle against the modern slave trade. In a statement supporting the initiative, the White House pledged to work harder in efforts to stamp out trafficking networks in the US and around the world. Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne is a longstanding campaigner against human trafficking as shadow rapporteur for a European Parliament report and as author of written declarations and parliamentary questions on the issue. She said: "I am delighted to see that recent progress to a co-ordinated attack on trafficking by the EU is being matched by this move by the Obama administration. Human trafficking is a global problem. "Awareness raising is important but I hope the US government will also increase efforts by law enforcement agencies to arrest and convict trafficking gangs." An EU Directive for a Europe-wide approach to trafficking in human beings was adopted last March and was signed up to by the UK government in May 2011. Liz Lynne added: "As well as promoting public awareness, it is important to focus on better help for the victims, both to help them rebuild their lives and to obtain high quality evidence vital to successful prosecutions. "Police and other agencies across Europe and America must co-operate in this work and step up action to prevent the predicted increase in trafficking during the Olympics this summer. "Dedicated police work, public awareness and a victim-centered approach will help us fight modern slavery." President Obama said: "We commit to bringing an end to this inexcusable human rights abuse. We re-dedicate ourselves to forging robust international partnerships that strengthen global anti-trafficking efforts." ENDS The UN estimates that between 700,000 and 2 million women and children are trafficked around the world each year with between 1000 and 4000 trafficked into the UK alone. Many are forced into prostitution or domestic servitude, others into slave labour in factories or on farms. Campaigners point to evidence that major sporting events such as the Olympics cause an increase in international sex trafficking in particular. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Jan 10, 2012:
- Stamp out trade in dangerous fake goods says MEP
  West Midlands Euro MP Liz Lynne has called for joint action to stamp out the trade in dangerous counterfeit goods, after news that 165,000 bottles of fake vodka containing dangerous amounts of methanol were distributed to shops before Christmas. Concern is growing that a substantial trade in fake medicines, alcoholic drinks and cosmetics are not only putting consumers' health at risk but also harming the UK economy due to lower duty and tax receipts. In 2007 the UK Government's medicines watchdog issued a recall of thousands of drugs being used by the NHS to treat stroke patients, men with prostate cancer and schizophrenics because the drugs were discovered to be counterfeit. Liz Lynne, First Vice President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee in the European Parliament said: "The recent seizure of fake vodka was only the most recent indication of a growing problem. This alcohol contained high levels of methanol which can cause blindness if drunk in large quantities. "I am very concerned by the damage done to both consumers and the UK economy by fake branded food and drink and other products, which in some cases can pose a serious health risk. "As well as fake goods, there is also a significant black market in smuggled genuine branded goods, especially drink and cigarettes, avoiding VAT and other duty payments. This is not just being sold near ports but all over the country. "Tax avoidance at every level is even more important at this time, when public funds are scarce. "Making sure your brand is genuine and paying VAT and other taxes on goods may not be the most popular New Year message but the UK is losing out to these criminal gangs so it is worth highlighting." Recent reports by the International Chamber of Commerce put the annual cost of counterfeiting to the global economy at £386 billion. ENDS Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 23, 2011:
- Liz Lynne's Christmas and New Year Message 2012
  The last year has been full of historic changes, both in Europe and beyond. There has been some unexpected encouraging news, such as the huge grassroots movement for reform sweeping the Arab World. Also unexpected was the relative success of the climate change summit in Durban in December which keeps hope alive for a truly global agreement to cut carbon emissions. Sadly, the year has also seen crisis in the eurozone. I certainly hope that 2012 will see a renewed effort by Britain and other EU countries, either in the euro or not, to work constructively to protect trade, rebuild confidence and promote economic recovery. The New Year will also be one of change for me personally as I am standing down in February after 12 and a half years as your local Euro MP. I feel I have been able to achieve a lot over the years, fighting for equality and reform in the EU. Looking back, winning new legislation to tackle needlestick injuries to healthcare staff and ensuring the Employment Directive outlawed workplace discrimination against disabled people or on grounds of age are particularly important to me. I also hope the New Year will see progress on the Equal Treatment Directive which I long campaigned for, to stop discrimination on all grounds including disability and age in access to goods and services. It is currently being held up by some countries but I hope it will go ahead. May I wish all my constituents a happy Christmas and prosperous new year. Liz Lynne Liberal Democrat MEP for the West Midlands region Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 22, 2011:
- Laundry phosphate ban to stop algae choking streams and ponds
  Laundry and dishwasher detergents must be phosphate-free in future, following a vote in the European Parliament. The measures, supported by West Midlands Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne, are aimed to help keep rivers and lakes clean and protect aquatic life in waterways and seas. Liberal Democrat MEPs led the European Parliament's position on the new legislation, which introduces EU wide restrictions on phosphorus in washing powder from June 2013. The aim of the new laws is to tackle eutrophication - the common sight of harmful overgrowths of green algae in streams, ponds and lakes. Washing powder and detergents using phosphates are a significant cause of the problem, though substitutes are available. The adoption of the new rules comes after intense negotiations with EU Member States in the Council. Lib Dem Euro MPs succeeded in extending the proposed ban beyond laundry washing powder to automatic dishwasher detergents, which are estimated to cause at least as much phosphate pollution. Liz Lynne MEP said: "These new laws will help protect the environment and reduce the costs to consumers of waste water treatment. "It makes sense to agree a common EU-wide laws so detergent manufacturers do not have to deal with 27 potentially different national standards. "Parliament was able to address fears that more innovation and development was needed before a phosphate-free market in dishwasher detergents could be achieved by delaying this part of the restriction until 2017, subject to further investigation by the Commission." "I am glad that the UK coalition government has backed this plan to improve our environment through straightforward, cost-effective legislation." ENDS Notes: Household detergents contribute a considerable amount of the phosphorus entering domestic wastewater, though effective substitutes for cleaning and softening water already exist on the market. The final text prohibits the placing on the market of any consumer laundry detergent if the total phosphorus content is equal to or greater than 0.5 grams (per standard dosage) as from 30 June 2013. The same applies from 1 January 2017 to any consumer automatic dishwasher detergent if the total phosphorus content is equal to or greater than 0.3 grams (per standard dosage). Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- Code of conduct vital to raise standards of dementia care
  An EU-wide code of conduct is needed to raise standards in dementia care, says Liz Lynne A code of conduct based on the best training and nursing practice from across Europe could be a vital way to raise care standards for dementia patients, says Euro MP Liz Lynne. The Lib Dem MEP and longstanding campaigner against elder abuse spoke out after a shocking report by the Royal College of Psychiatrists revealed widespread failures to provide proper care for dementia patients and a lack of training. Less than a third of staff questioned by RCP researchers in the audit of 210 hospitals thought they had sufficient training to care for patients with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Basic help with activities such as eating is insufficient in some places, the report says. A quarter of hospital beds are occupied by people over 65 who suffer from Alzheimer's or another form of the condition. Yet the RCP found only 6% of hospitals had a care pathway in place for people with dementia, though another 44% had one being developed. The report found that services are 'safe' but lacking in other areas such as staff communication with families, personal care and a failure to access existing specialist services. Liz Lynne, MEP for the West Midlands, is first Vice President of the European Parliament's Employment and Social Affairs Committee and Vice President of the Age Intergroup of MEPs. She said: "This research is yet more evidence of the need for a real step change in standards for people in long term care and for training people who look after them. "I believe an EU-wide code of conduct, which would not require new legislation, has a vital role to play in delivering this, not least by sharing best practice that works. "Almost every European country is grappling with a huge increase in the number of people who need long term care. Over half of residents in UK care homes have some form of dementia. "Different countries are tackling the issue in different ways but we all have to develop affordable but far-reaching ways to train staff in person-centered care, maintain high standards and prevent abuse, whether deliberate or simply due to ignorance." "In Britain the last Labour government produced a Dementia Strategy in 2009, but today's report makes it quite clear that this has not worked. "Learning the lessons and experience from other countries and adapting successful models for the provision of training or specialist services could make a huge difference." ENDS Note: For the more details of the National Audit of Dementia see http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/press/pressreleases2011/nationalauditofdementia.aspx Liz Lynne, MEP for the West Midlands, has worked closely with Age UK and other campaigners to highlight elder abuse and lack of proper training for staff in long term care. In September, the Lib Dem conference in Birmingham voted nem con to back Liz Lynne's amendments to a policy motion on social care, which called for sharing best practice and an EU-wide code of conduct on long term care as well as tougher measures to improve care standards, prevent abuse and give adults at risk of abuse similar rights as those given to children. Her proposals were supported both by Age UK and the Care Services Minister, Paul Burstow. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 21, 2011:
- Lib Dem Euro MPs back deal to free small firms from EU accounting rules
  Lib Dem MEPs such as Liz Lynne have been leading the fight to scrap red tape for small business The European Parliament has voted to exempt so called 'micro' businesses from complex EU accounting rules, which will mean a huge reduction in red tape for many small firms. The move follows a long campaign by Liberal Democrat MEPs to reduce the burden of unnecessary bureaucracy for small firms and the self-employed. Under the change, millions of small businesses with no more than 10 employees and turnover below €700,000 (around £590,000) must now only comply with national reporting rules which usually demand very basic financial information. The vote followed a two year tussle between MEPs and Member States in the Council of Ministers over the size of business to be affected by the term 'micro entity'. The proposal has been strongly supported by Liberal Democrat Euro MPs. Liz Lynne, First Vice President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, said the vote at the last plenary session of the Parliament in Strasbourg was a significant victory in the battle to scrap pointless red tape. She said: "This decision strikes a blow for common sense at a very difficult time for business. The battle to scrap over-complicated red tape is crucial for small firms at this time when bank credit is tight and trading conditions difficult. "It is important for small businesses to provide basic financial information to comply with national laws on transparency and tax, but full scale complex accounts of the kind used by businesses operating regularly across national borders are not necessary." Liz Lynne added: "In the Parliament we wanted to include as many small and medium-sized businesses as possible under the simplified accounting rules, while many governments held out for a tighter definition. "I am glad that after a compromise, we have managed to get agreement on a generous definition of 'micro entity' small businesses in the deal adopted this week. "It is now up to governments to implement this exemption. I hope the coalition government can introduce the changes here as soon as possible. "I will also be keeping up the pressure on the European Commission to deliver on its pledge to cut the burden of business red tape by 25%." ENDS Note to editors: Micro businesses under the deal backed by Parliament are defined as firms with a total balance sheet of less than €350,000 (around £300,000), a net turnover of less than €700,000 (around £590,000) and no more than 10 employees on average a year. According to a 2003 Eurostat breakdown · 99.8% of all EU companies are SMEs · 91.5% are micro businesses · SMEs provide 67.1% of all private sector jobs. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- Right to vote for all disabled people must be upheld - Liz Lynne
  The denial of the right to vote for some disabled people in Europe is a scandalous breach of basic human rights, says a cross-party group of Euro MPs including Lib Dem Liz Lynne. The MEP for the West Midlands has signed a Written Declaration in the European Parliament deploring the way in which people with disabilities are still 'generally obstructed' from voting in elections in many EU countries. The move follows protests by Human Rights Watch and other groups after the Venice Commission (the European Commission for Democracy through Law, which advises the Council of Europe) failed to amend a code of practice to make sure disabled people always get the vote. Liz Lynne, who is Vice-President of the European Parliament's All-Party Disability Group as well as Vice-President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee said: "It is scandalous that after so many years the principle of universal suffrage still does not always apply to disabled people, which is a breach of the UN Convention of the Rights of People with Disabilities. "The right to vote is the most basic building block of democracy. In some countries the issue is one of access to vote, in others the right to vote is being linked to legal capacity to take financial decisions of one form or another. "It is very disappointing that the Venice Commission has not made clear in codes of practice that the right to vote should be truly universal. "The voice of disabled people on this issue and the words of the UN Convention which we have signed up to are crystal clear. This has to change. "Article 29 on the UN Convention sets out clear obligations "that persons with disabilities can effectively and fully participate in political and public life on an equal basis with others, directly or through freely chosen representatives, including the right and opportunity for persons with disabilities to vote and be elected." "Some people are not more equal than others. The right to vote should not be decided by doctors or public authorities, a process which would be ripe for abuse. "European countries cannot credibly tell the rest of the world to respect fundamental human rights if we continue to allow these loopholes, which are based on ignorance." ENDS Note: The Declaration, similar to an early day motion in Westminster, needs 369 signatures to be adopted by the European Parliament. 0044/2011 Written declaration on the right to vote of people with disabilities The European Parliament, - having regard to Rule 123 of its Rules of Procedure, A. whereas the EU has adopted the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, B. whereas the Charter on Fundamental Rights states that everyone is equal before the law and that discrimination based on disability shall be prohibited, C. whereas the Treaty lays down that every citizen has the right to participate in the democratic life of the Union, D. whereas in a majority of EU states persons with intellectual disabilities are or may be excluded from the right to vote or be elected, 1. Deplores the way in which people with disabilities are still generally obstructed from voting in elections; 2. Regrets the recent decision of the Venice Commission to continue to support the practice in many EU states whereby the courts can strip people 'of proven mental disability' of their legal capacity; 3. Calls on all Member States to remove all legal limitations to the right of persons with disabilities to exercise their basic civic rights; 4. Instructs its President to forward this declaration, together with the names of the signatories, to the parliaments and governments of the Member States, the Commission, the Council and the Council of Europe. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- New directive will help Brits arrested abroad to know their rights
  The European Parliament has endorsed a new EU Directive guaranteeing all criminal suspects information about their rights and the evidence against them. The Directive would ensure that all people arrested or detained in an EU country would be given information about their procedural rights in an easily understandable form. Liz Lynne MEP, First Vice President of the Parliament's Employment and Social Affairs Committee said: "This directive is an important step forward to safeguard the rights of British citizens in other European countries. "Under the new measure everyone arrested will be given a 'letter of rights' setting out their entitlements such as the right to have a lawyer, to have consular authorities informed and get urgent medical care. "This process already happens in the UK so we will not have problems complying, but it will be of major benefit in raising standards for Brits arrested abroad or facing a European Arrest Warrant." "Being arrested abroad in country with a different language can be a frightening experience. Everyone has a right to a fair trial and to understand what they are being charged with and their rights to representation. "Unfortunately some EU states still fail to meet the requirements of the European Convention of Human Rights guaranteeing respect for the rights of the defence. "This EU measure does contain enforcement powers to make sure it is carried out." ENDS Note: The text of the directive on the right to information in criminal proceedings can be seen here: (COM(2010)0392 - C7-0189/2010 - 2010/0215(COD)) http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=REPORT&reference=A7-2011-0408&language=EN Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 20, 2011:
- Parliament backs stricter rules for fruit juice labels
  Euro MPs have voted to put in place stricter rules on the composition of fruit juices and better labelling guidelines which will substantially improve the quality of fruit juices on sale across the EU. The move follows concern that many strawberry juices or smoothies being marketed actually contain more apples than strawberries, while some other 'juice' contains large amounts of additional sugar or sweeteners. County Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne supported the proposals as a way of helping consumers. "I am delighted that in the future putting extra sugar in drinks labelled as fruit juice will be banned. "It will no longer be possible to market a product on the basis of only a minor ingredient if the juice is actually made up mostly by a completely different fruit. "For many consumers with health issues such as diabetes and allergies it is vitally important to clearly state what has been put in their drinks." The new rules will come into force after a transition period of 18 months and will apply to all juice products regardless of whether they are produced in the EU or imported from elsewhere. ENDS Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 19, 2011:
- MEP welcomes last minute concession on sheep tagging rules
  Liz discussing sheep tagging problems at Ludlow livestock market Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne has welcomed a three year delay for EU rules requiring farmers to individually record the movement of sheep from the 'historic flock'. Lib Dem MEPs including Liz Lynne have lobbied the European Commission hard for a more flexible approach to sheep tagging, especially as machines designed to read new electronic tags continue to prove unreliable in practice. The requirement to individually record movements of sheep born before December 31, 2009, known as the historic flock, was due to come into force on January 1 2012. But a last minute proposal from the UK government to delay the requirement until the end of 2014 was narrowly accepted by the European Commission's Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health (SCoFCAH) at a meeting in Brussels last week. The move will save UK farmers up to £11.5 million. Liz Lynne said: "This is a welcome breathing space for sheep farmers who are experiencing huge problems with the implementation of electronic tags. "Lib Dem MEPs are continuing to press the Commission to understand the effect of these issues and to be sympathetic to farmers who have shown nothing but good faith in trying to comply with the regulations. "I hope the extra time the Commission has given will enable the technical issues to be sorted out once and for all. "This new rule would have imposed substantial costs for virtually no benefit in increased traceability for sheep. "Sheep farmers, especially in upland areas of the West Midlands region, are battling to stay afloat in difficult economic times. Regulations need to practical and should only be imposed where there is a clear benefit." The Committee agreed that pre-2010 older sheep can now retain their conventional tags, and keepers will be able to continue to record and report their movements as a batch. ENDS Note: Since January 1, 2010, sheep born in Britain and kept beyond 12 months of age have to be electronically identified. Electronic tag numbers have had to be recorded on movement documents since January 1, 2011. The increased requirements for traceability of many kinds of livestock are designed to help control and prevent animal diseases. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 10, 2011:
- Liz backs call for 'Silver Seniors' to help promote active ageing in 2012
  Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne is backing a cross-party call to promote networks of 'Silver Seniors' to map the needs of older people, share ways to bridge the generation gap and promote a more active old age. The European Commission is being urged by MEPs and charity campaigners to back a 'Seniors in Action - Invest in Silver Innovation' programme to train older volunteers to get involved in innovative schemes to challenge age discrimination and encourage older people in community life. The idea is hoped to be an effective grass roots initiative for 2012, which has been designated European Year on Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations. Other plans in the Written Declaration include an age‑friendly environment network and a European 'Covenant of Mayors' to support the exchange of experience and best practice between councils and regions on the best local schemes to promote active and healthy ageing. West Midlands Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne, First Vice President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee is a longstanding campaigner against age discrimination at work and in society. She said: "One of the most profound social changes happening in almost every European country is a huge increase in the number of older people. This is both a demographic challenge and a massive opportunity. "The best way to respond, as research shows, is to change expectations, to encourage a longer perhaps less inten 2012 Year of Active Ageing is a great idea but needs to leave something practical behind. This cross-party declaration in the European Parliament follows some hard thinking on how we can make a success of it. "We want to encourage and focus the efforts of governments, local authorities, social partners and civil society to use 2012 to promote the real benefits of healthy and active ageing and share best practice. "Every European country needs to mobilise the potential of the rapidly growing population in their 50s, 60s and over. Active ageing also covers volunteering, lifelong learning, cultural expression and involvement in sport, all proven to promote health and wellbeing. Member States should also be developing national action plans on active and healthy ageing." ENDS Note: European Parliament Written Declarations, similar to early day motions in Westminster, need 369 signatures to be adopted. 0048/2011 Written declaration on the European Year for Active Ageing and Intergenerational Solidarity in 2012 The European Parliament, - having regard to Article 3 of the Treaty of Lisbon promoting solidarity between generations, having regard to Article 25 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union protecting the rights of the elderly, having regard to Rule 123 of its Rules of Procedure, A. whereas demographic change is, together with climate change and the economic crisis, the main challenge thatEU Member States will have to face in the coming decades; B. whereas 2012 will be the European Year on Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations and it is of utmost importance to create age-friendly environments; 1. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to support the creation of an EU age‑friendly environment network that would provide support to local, regional and national actors seeking to foster active and healthy ageing using the participatory methodology developed by the World Health Organisation; 2. Calls on the Commission to launch a European Covenant of Mayors on Active and Healthy Ageing to support the exchange of experiences and good practices at local and regional levels, and a 'Seniors in Action - Invest in Silver Innovation' programme to train older volunteers to map the needs of older people in their communities; 3. Calls on the Member States to develop national action plans on active and healthy ageing within their National Reform Plans; 4. Instructs its President to forward this declaration and names of signatories, to the Commission, the Council and the Member States. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 9, 2011:
- A European strategy to protect Down's syndrome children
  Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne is backing a cross-party call in the European Parliament for more research into Down's syndrome and an EU-wide strategy to protect the rights of children born with the congenital condition. The MEP for the West Midlands has signed a Written Declaration highlighting problems facing those born with Down's syndrome, which affects between one in 1000 and one in 600 children and is one of the commonest causes of learning disability. Liz, who is Vice-President of the European Parliament's All-Party Disability Group as well as Vice-President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee said: "I welcome this cross-party attempt to protect the rights of children born with Down's syndrome. "Though a serious condition with learning impairment and increased risk of heart disease, children given the best support can make enormous progress. "In Britain, most children with Down's syndrome attend a mainstream primary school and many then go on to a mainstream secondary school, though it is important that a choice to opt for special education should remain open to parents. The picture is very variable in the rest of the EU. "As the Declaration notes, the EU has ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and it is important that member states give a high priority to giving children and adults with Down's syndrome the civil and economic rights they are entitled to. "There clearly is scope to share research and best practice on the most successful models of support, to increase awareness and to encourage greater social inclusion." "In later life, there also needs to be more work to ensure better job prospects, as less than one in five adults with Down's syndrome have a job. With guidance, employers can learn how to successfully employ people with Down's so they can make a full contribution to the workforce." "The EU's Employment Directive created laws to ensure people with disabilities cannot be discriminated against in the workplace and employers must reasonably accommodate the needs of disabled people. We must ensure this is effectively implemented." ENDS Note: The Declaration, similar to an early day motion in Westminster, needs 369 signatures to be adopted by the European Parliament. The Down's Syndrome Association (DSA) in the UK and its European counterpart, EDSA, work to promote the needs of people with Down's syndrome. For details see http://www.downs-syndrome.org.uk 0052/201 Written declaration on Down's syndrome children The European Parliament - having regard to Rule 123 of its Rules of Procedure, A. whereas it is estimated that the chance of a child being born with Down's syndrome is between 600 and 1000 to 1; B. whereas Down's syndrome is one of the commonest genetic causes of learning disabilities; C. whereas congenital anomalies are one of the main causes of infant mortality and long-term disability, and Down's syndrome children can suffer from numerous congenital disturbances, the most frequent being heart disease; D. whereas Article 26 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union states: 'The Union recognises and respects the right of persons with disabilities to benefit from measures designed to ensure their independence, social and occupational integration and participation in the life of the community'; E. whereas the EU has ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which lays down universal minimum standards protecting and guaranteeing a whole range of civil, political, social and economic rights; 1. Calls on the Commission, the Council and the Member States to: - contribute to the social inclusion of Down's syndrome children by means of awareness-raising campaigns at national and European level; - promote pan-European research into the treatment of this condition; - draw up a Europe-wide strategy for protecting the rights of Down's syndrome children in the EU; 2. Instructs its President to forward this declaration, together with the names of the signatories, to the Commission, the Council and the national authorities concerned. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 6, 2011:
- UK action on illegal eggs must be backed by Europe
  Liberal Democrat Euro MP Liz Lynne has welcomed the Coalition Government's pledge today that tough action will be taken to stop eggs from battery caged hens being sold in the UK. As of 1st January 2012, eggs produced in battery cages will be illegal. It is estimated that up to 51 million eggs, or a nearly a quarter of all EU production, will not be compliant by that date. UK producers have spent £400 million on meeting the new standards. Liz Lynne is keen to ensure that these farmers are not undercut by producers who have not upgraded their systems. Last week the West Midlands MEP signed a cross-party European Parliament Written Declaration calling for action on the issue. Liz Lynne said: "I welcome the commitment of the UK government to get tough on producers who fail to meet the new EU standards next year. There is a particular problem with liquid egg products whose origin is difficult to check. "Farmers in the West Midlands have spent millions to comply with the law and it is vital that we protect their investment and stop them from being undercut by eggs or egg products produced illegally "But tough action by the UK must be supported by the European Commission. Lib Dem MEPs are pressing Commissioner Dalli, who due to address MEPs next week, for tough sanctions against law-breakers to protect consumers and farmers who have taken care to comply with the regulations." ENDS Note to editors: The cross party declaration signed by Liz Lynne last week. 0046/2011 Written declaration on the marketing of eggs from hens housed in outlawed cages The European Parliament, - having regard to Council Directive 1999/74/EC, which introduced a ban on the use of battery cages for the rearing of laying hens, - having regard to Commission Regulation 589/2008/EC on rules for the marketing standards for eggs, - having regard to Rule 123 of its Rules of Procedure, A. is concerned that some Member States will not implement Directive 1999/74/EC by the required date, despite a phase-in period of 12 years, B. is concerned that egg producers who have complied with Directive 1999/74/EC should not be penalisedthrough illegal competition, especially concerning imported eggs and egg products from third countries, C. whereas European consumers will not accept the continuation of battery farming for eggs, 1. Calls on the Commission to launch swift and effective infringement proceedings with heavy and dissuasive fines if there is a lack of compliance with all elements of the Directive; 2. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to introduce an intra-Community trade ban on all eggs not in compliance with Directive 1999/74 as of 1 January 2012; 3. Calls on the Commission to increase the number of FVO inspection missions in 2012; 4. Instructs its President to forward this declaration, together with the names of the signatories, to the Council and Commission. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- Inspectors warnings on Do Not Resuscitate Orders must be heeded - Liz Lynne
  Responding to reports today that Care Quality Commission inspectors warned the University Hospitals Birmingham Trust twice in two years over Do Not Resuscitate Orders, Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne said: "I have warned for years that the increasing use of 'do not resuscitate' orders without consent must be challenged. This is a terrible form of elder abuse. "It should be up to the medical practitioner in consultation with the patient to decide on whether a DNR order should be on someone's notes. "This report is extremely concerning but at least it shows the inspection process is working. But trusts must change their procedures to take these warnings into account. "This is also a problem in nursing homes. I personally know of cases where a nursing home itself decides which patient is resuscitated or relatives are told they must sign up to a DNR order. This is a complete abuse of the patient's right to choose. "The use of DNR orders in this way, regardless of choice, violates the right to life under Article 2 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights. "It is good news that the UK government is now moving to tackle the abuse of older people in care settings and is encouraging the CQC to be more proactive. "We need to ensure best practice is followed, which is why I have urged an EU wide code of conduct for long term care. "Quite often once an older person requires long term care they find it increasingly difficult to speak up for themselves. Their rights must be respected." "Where there is abuse, it is vital that inspectors flag up concerns immediately and that health care institutions are then seen to act on them." Ends Notes to Editors: The Guardian reports today that since May, at least 8 NHS trusts in England have been alerted to concerns over "do not resuscitate" orders by the Care Quality Commission. As well as Birmingham, hospitals in York, Basildon, Hastings, Boston, Exeter, Bristol and Shrewsbury were also warned to stick more rigorously to local policies about when doctors decide resuscitation would not benefit a patient suffering a cardiac arrest. West Midlands MEP Liz Lynne is a long time campaigner for the rights of older people and for more to be done to tackle elder abuse and age discrimination. She drafted the Lib Dem policy on abuse as voted through by the Birmingham conference in an amendment to a motion on Adult Social Care, calling for tougher monitoring and a non-statutory EU wide code of practice to raise standards. She has also worked with Age UK on an oral question and resolution in the European Parliament, asking the European Commission to act on Do Not Resuscitate Orders and other issues relating to abuse. The text of the oral question and the resolution is at: http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?language=EN&reference=O-2010-0102&secondRef=0&type=OQ Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 2, 2011:
- Eggs from illegal battery hens should be banned across the EU, says Liz
  Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne is backing a cross-party call in the European Parliament protesting that egg farmers who have spent millions to give hens more space face illegal competition from EU countries which have kept cruel battery cages. The West Midlands MEP is backing a Parliamentary Written Declaration demanding a trade ban within the EU of all egg products from EU countries that have failed to comply with the Laying Hens Directive by January 1st 2012. The Laying Hens Directive was approved in 1999, giving member states a generous 12 years to introduce "enriched" larger cages that give hens space to perch and stretch their wings. Farmers in the UK and elsewhere have spent millions of pounds to comply and improve the welfare of their hens. But as the deadline approaches, it is clear that several EU member states, including Belgium, Poland, Hungary and Greece, have failed to enforce the law, with a high proportion of eggs still produced from cruel battery units. Local Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne, a longstanding supporter of tougher animal welfare measures, said: "It is a disgrace that producers who have complied with the law by January 1st will then face unfair and illegal competition from cheaper battery eggs. "Consumers are strongly against battery farming for eggs, so the law should be enforced properly. "It is time the European Commission gets tough with heavy fines on countries which have not complied with all parts of the Directive. "I also support the call for an official intra-Community trade ban on egg products from EU battery hens after January 1st and more frequent inspections to ensure the law is applied. "I hope every British MEP from all parties signs this declaration." The Declaration, similar to an early day motion in Westminster, needs 369 signatures to be adopted by the European Parliament. Lib Dem MEPs had earlier called on the UK government to go it alone if necessary and ban EU battery eggs or egg products next year unilaterally, even if it risked subsequent court action. ENDS Note: 0046/2011 Written declaration on the marketing of eggs from hens housed in outlawed cages The European Parliament, -having regard to Council Directive 1999/74/EC, which introduced a ban on the use of battery cages for the rearing of laying hens, -having regard to Commission Regulation 589/2008/EC on rules for the marketing standards for eggs, -having regard to Rule 123 of its Rules of Procedure, A. is concerned that some Member States will not implement Directive 1999/74/EC by the required date, despite a phase-in period of 12 years, B. is concerned that egg producers who have complied with Directive 1999/74/EC should not be penalised through illegal competition, especially concerning imported eggs and egg products from third countries, C. whereas European consumers will not accept the continuation of battery farming for eggs, 1. Calls on the Commission to launch swift and effective infringement proceedings with heavy and dissuasive fines if there is a lack of compliance with all elements of the Directive; 2. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to introduce an intra-Community trade ban on all eggs not in compliance with Directive 1999/74 as of 1 January 2012; 3. Calls on the Commission to increase the number of FVO inspection missions in 2012; 4. Instructs its President to forward this declaration, together with the names of the signatories, to the Council and Commission. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- Care crisis: A Europe-wide code of conduct would raise standards - Lynne
  Shocking failures in elderly care revealed in the recent report by the Equality and Human Rights Commission highlight the need to share and apply best practice from other European countries on how to look after our ageing populations, says Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne. We need to learn the lessons on how best to look after old people, says Liz Lynne The West Midlands MEP and longstanding campaigner on care issues said the review also demonstrated the importance of a new non-statutory code of practice on long term care. Liz Lynne is first Vice President of the European Parliament's Employment and Social Affairs Committee and Vice President of the European Parliament's Age Intergroup. In September, the Lib Dem conference in Birmingham voted nem con to back Liz Lynne's amendments to a policy motion on social care, which called for sharing best practice and a code of conduct as well as tougher measures to improve care standards, prevent abuse and give adults at risk of abuse similar rights as those given to children. Her proposals were supported both by Age UK and the Care Services Minister, Paul Burstow. Liz Lynne said: "The appalling evidence of neglect and abuse in this report is more evidence that our care system is in crisis. "Elderly people are suffering from a widespread failure to show them dignity, respect and basic standards of care, both at home and in care institutions. "The core problems of an ageing population, an increase in chronic illness and people living alone and budget pressures are not unique to Britain, every country in Europe is facing these issues. "We need to learn the lessons and share and apply best practice on models of care that work. "I have also long called for a new code of conduct or charter at EU level on long term care, which would not need new legislation or cost very much. "This could have a dramatic effect in raising standards and encouraging both private and public sector care providers to follow best practice in the training and management of care staff. "I was pleased the Minister has repeated his determination to put adult safeguarding on a statutory footing and also today again mentioned the importance of improved codes of practice." ENDS Notes: Liz Lynne's amendment to motion F34 on Adult Social Care, as voted through by the Lib Dem conference in Birmingham in September included the following provisions: INSERT new paragraph A. Follows best practice in protecting older people from abuse. Insert new clause in 2. c) and to confer comparable rights to adults at risk of abuse as those afforded to children. INSERT new paragraph 6: 1. Take further action to highlight and prevent the growing problem of the abuse of older people, including: a. Steps to improve the inspection regime for care homes to monitor for abuse and take action when concerns are raised. b. Improved assistance for victims of abuse, whether it occurs in the home or in a care institution and greater protection for those who uncover or witness abuse. c. Support for a non-statutory EU-wide Code of Conduct for long term care, including a Charter of Rights for older people. d. Encourage the pro-active exchange of research and best practice in Britain and other EU member states on the prevalence of abuse and effective measures to prevent it. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Dec 1, 2011:
- Liz welcomes Handsworth Rotary Club to the European Parliament
  Birmingham Euro MP Liz Lynne has sponsored a visit by a delegation from Handsworth Rotary Club to the European Parliament in Brussels. The 35-strong delegation included club members and partners from a cross-section of Handsworth's multi-cultural and multi-ethnic local community. The leader and organiser was longstanding Rotarian Norman Townsend, who has twice served as President of Handsworth Rotary. The group toured the Parliament on Wednesday November 30th, received a briefing from officials and also had a separate question and answer session with Liz Lynne who sponsored the visit. Liz has recently announced that she is standing down in February after 12 and a half years representing the area as our Lib Dem MEP. The group heard a personal account of Liz Lynne's role and recent work, both as a regional Euro MP with five million constituents and as First Vice President of the Parliament's powerful Employment and Social Affairs Committee. Commenting afterwards, Liz Lynne said: "It was great to meet this lively group representing all sections of the community in Handsworth. It is fantastic that the Rotary Club in Handsworth is making a real effort to be inclusive and multi-cultural. "The group showed a lively interest in everything at the European Parliament and my work as a city MEP. They asked detailed questions about the Parliament's co-decision role in agreeing new legislation, as well as questions about recent European Parliament pressure in wider international affairs and the ongoing financial crisis in the eurozone. "Norman Townsend and the Rotary Club deserve every credit for taking the initiative to organise this sponsored visit, which I'm sure the members found valuable." ENDS Photo: Rotarian Norman Townsend and members of the Handsworth Rotary Club delegation with Liz Lynne MEP at the European Parliament. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
- EU Health and Safety rules must be based on sound scientific evidence - Lynne
  Liz Lynne MEP launching the Löfstedt Review of Health and Safety law with Chris Grayling and Prof Ragnar Löfstedt in the European Parliament Liz Lynne, Britain's most senior MEP on the Employment and Social Affairs committee, has co-hosted the launch of the Löfstedt Review on health and safety legislation in the European Parliament. Chris Grayling, the Employment Minister, commissioned the review by Professor Ragnar Löfstedt on behalf of the Coalition Government to look at how health and safety legislation impacted on British business and workers. Liberal Democrat Liz Lynne, First Vice President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, along with Conservative MEP Julie Girling, welcomed Chris Grayling and Professor Löfstedt to the Parliament on Wednesday November 30th. Speaking at the launch conference at the Parliament in Brussels, Liz Lynne said: "I have always been of the belief that legislation should only be done at European level if it is absolutely necessary to create a level playing field. "Any health and safety legislation has to be based on sound up-to-date scientific and medical evidence and be subject to a comprehensive impact assessment." She welcomed Professor Löfstedt's review as an important contribution to the ongoing debate. Liz went on to say: "We have to be vigilant when we are working on legislation to make sure that we don't add an unnecessary burden on business which in turn could throw people out of work. In this present economic climate it is even more important that we get it right. "We have to remember that MEPs are co-legislators along with the Council of Ministers on over 60% of EU legislation. That is why it is so important for people to engage with Parliamentarians at an early stage in the drafting of legislation. "If we work together, we can make sure legislation is fit for purpose. "I personally would like to see sunset clauses in all new EU legislation; this would mean that after five years legislation has to be looked at to see if it is working properly in each and everyMember State. If it isn't, is this because it is unworkable? If so, that legislation should be repealed and not just added to." ENDS Photo caption: (From left) Employment Minister Chris Grayling, Liz Lynne MEP, Julie Girling MEP, Professor Ragnar Löfstedt at the launch of the Review in the European Parliament. Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY
Nov 30, 2011:
- 30 years after the first AIDS case: wear the ribbon for World AIDS Day - MEP
  Members of the European Parliament including local Lib Dem Euro MP Liz Lynne will highlight the importance of the continued battle against HIV this week, 30 years after the first AIDS case was diagnosed in 1981. Members will be debating a resolution on EU strategy on HIV/AIDS on Thursday December 1st, which is also World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day has been held on that date each year since 1988 and is an opportunity for people worldwide to show support for people living with HIV and to commemorate those who have died. Liz Lynne and other MEPs will also be wearing a red ribbon, the international symbol of HIV awareness. Liz Lynne, First Vice President of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, campaigned for six years with nursing organisations including the RCN for new Europe-wide laws to cut the risks from needles and other sharp objects to medical staff, which were finally agreed last year. HIV is one of more than 30 dangerous blood-borne pathogens that can be transmitted by contaminated needles in accidental healthcare-related injuries. Liz Lynne said: "There has been dramatic progress over the last two decades in dealing with HIV / AIDS and at last there has been progress on cutting the risk from needlestick injuries. "However the sobering reality is that the infection rate is still rising almost everywhere and not just in at risk groups. Treatment is more effective but we must do more to stop people catching it in the first place. "There is no doubt that the EU has a vital role to play in encouraging both member states and other countries around the world to redouble the battle against AIDS and HIV. "As this is the 30th anniversary of the emergence of this appalling disease, it is particularly important that policy makers take stock of best practice, both in terms of health education and research. "Also vital is the continued need to fight the stigma attached to the condition, which can affect women or men, straight or gay. "It is good to take this opportunity to show our support, respect and understanding for people living with HIV by wearing the red ribbon, the international symbol of HIV awareness this week." ENDS Published and promoted by Liz Lynne MEP, 55 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6LN Printed (hosted) by Prater Raines Ltd, 98 Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BY

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