Lib Dem MEP tops the league

THE Euro-MP Chris Davies has emerged at the head of a ‘league table’ comparing the performance of representatives in the European Parliament.  The Liberal Democrat has spoken more often, tabled more questions, and has the best attendance record of the 8 MEP's who represent the North West of England.

The figures compiled by independent organisation Votewatch.eu are based on the European Parliament’s own public records since elections were held last year. 

Davies has made 34 speeches in the Parliament on subjects ranging from the need to introduce sustainable fisheries policies to the situation in Middle East, but he concentrated in particular on environmental legislation.

The second most voluble MEP was British National Party leader Nick Griffin, who spoke 14 times during the year.  Bottom of the table was Conservative MEP Jackie Foster, who spoke on just three occasions and tabled no parliamentary questions at all.  But UKIP’s representative, Paul Nuttall, claimed the record for absenteeism, being present on just 58% of the days that the Parliament was in session.

Chris Davies said that numbers did not tell the whole story but was pleased that he had topped the table.  He said:- “I’m involved in the shaping of laws that will be binding on 27 countries. A lot of work goes on behind the scenes but parliamentary debates do provide an opportunity to put ideas on record and to hold the European Commission to public account.  Perhaps the UK Independence Party should learn some lessons. You can’t stand up for Britain’s interests if you are not present when votes take place.”

Comparison table of performance of North West MEP's using figures from the votewatch.eu website is below:-

Laughter the best therapy for city patients

A leading healthcare provider has become the first in the country to use the medium of comedy to help patients with communication difficulties.

NHS Liverpool Community Health in conjunction with The Comedy Trust, are inviting those who have been diagnosed with either communication difficulties or a neurological condition to apply for places on a scheme which will encourage people to use humour and drama to play out difficult situations.

Everyday scenarios which are often taken for granted - such as banking, ordering a meal and using public transport - will be tackled using humour and communication strategies at the six fortnightly sessions to be held at Lifehouse in Brunswick Business Park in L3.

Specialist Speech and Language Therapist Gillian Dowman, who is involved with the group, said:- “We are delighted to be able to offer our patients such an innovative and important approach to therapy.  It is quite exciting from our point of view, as it enables people to look at difficulties they may encounter in a much more supported and yet light-hearted way.”

Ann Nelson from The Comedy Trust said:- “Certain situations can be very difficult and frustrating for those who struggle to express themselves. This course will use both speech therapy and laughter to show people that these types of difficult situations can be overcome.”

The Comedy Trust run the annual Liverpool Comedy Festival and have been involved in a number of groundbreaking health projects over the last few years, including a very successful programme at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.  

Anyone wishing to apply for a place on the course should email or call Jennifer Carne:- 0151 296 7403 for more details.