Nick Clegg hails Liz Lynne’s ‘immense contribution’ as Euro MP
November 7, 2011 11:47 AM
Liz Lynne's hard work 'embodies the Lib Dem approach to Europe' says Nick Clegg
Commenting on news that Liz Lynne has decided to stand down from the European Parliament after 12 years, Lib Dem leader and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said:
"Liz has not only been a good campaigning MEP, fighting for the West Midlands region, she has also been the embodiment of the distinctive Liberal Democrat approach to Europe.
"She has supported sensible regulation to protect a level playing field and basic rights where European rules are appropriate, but always fought to stop meddling bureaucracy and red tape where it is harmful.
"Liz Lynne has also made an immense contribution to changing the law at national and European level to help disabled people take a full and active role in society and more recently to give old people and cancer patients the same rights against discrimination.
"I certainly hope we will see Liz continuing to campaign and speak out on the issues she cares about even after she leaves the European Parliament".
The Euro MP revealed her decision in her speech to the regional Lib Dem party conference at Birmingham Chamber of Commerce on Saturday.
She said: "I have decided to stand down as MEP at the beginning of February.
"I have thought about this carefully and believe that the time is right. Although I still find the work stimulating and worthwhile, the relentless travelling particularly to and fromStrasbourgis onerous to say the least.
"Stepping down now will also give my successor, Phil Bennion, enough time to bed down and make an effective contribution in the remaining two and and half years of this Parliament.
"The ongoing financial crisis acrossEuropemeans that the Liberal Democrat voice for reform and democracy will continue to be needed loud and clear."
"I am not retiring but want to focus my politics in ways which do not involve quite so much travelling. I will continue to support the Liberal Democrat party in any way I can, I remain a strong supporter of Nick Clegg's leadership and his work in the coalition government."
ENDS
Picture caption: Liz Lynne MEP addressing the West Midlands Lib Dem regional conference on Saturday. She has announced she will stand down in February.
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