letter to the editor from Richard Corbett MEP

25 February 2005

The Observer

Sir,

Caroline Lucas MEP wants a “democratic, accountable and sustainable EU” (Observer, 20 Feb). That is precisely why she should join Green parties from across Europe and support the new constitutional treaty.

The treaty makes sustainable development a legal requirement in the formulation of all EU policies. It also enhances parliamentary scrutiny of EU decisions and provides a lasting settlement of the vexed question of which decisions we should take at EU level - such as the environment - and which at national level - such as housing, education and health.

It is sad that the isolated British Greens, unlike their continental colleagues, seem intent on playing to the europhobic gallery rather than having the courage to challenge reflex assumptions.

Richard Corbett MEP

Labour spokesman on EU constitutional affairs