British beef campaigner welcomes end of French ban
October 3, 2002 12:00 AM
A MEP and long-time campaigner for justice for Britain's beef farmers, has welcomed the French Government's decision to lift their 3-year illegal ban on British beef.
But the Liberal Democrat MEP is also calling for a change in the rules to allow the European Commission to take direct and speedy action against Member States who defy EU rulings without needing to pursue the case through the European Court of Justice.
Liz Lynne said: "The announcement by the French government is welcome, but three years overdue. The loss to British farmers is incalculable as the illegal ban has not only cut off exports to France but also undermined attempts to rebuild confidence in British beef elsewhere in the world.
"It now looks as if British farmers will be denied any compensation due to the convoluted way in which such cases are handled through the European Court of Justice. The French have been cocking a snook at the EU, knowing they could delay lifting their ban until the last possible moment and get away without paying a penny.
"The Commission should consider how this has undermined its own authority and credibility across Europe. As it stands, the way is open for Member States to behave in a similar manner as and when they feel like it. The EU cannot afford to function on good will alone. The Commission must be given teeth when the need arises" she added.
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