MEP candidates quizzed by Warwick University students.

10.12.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 12th May 2009

Liberal Democrat MEP for the West Midlands Liz Lynne and other candidates for the forthcoming European elections were last night guests at a debate on the European Union hosted by Warwick University Students Union.

Candidates were quizzed on topics ranging from how to make the EU more transparent to the environment and the Euro.

Speaking after the event Liz said:

"I believe that the UK is stronger when working together with our European partners than being outside the system and not being able to influence the decisions which affect all our lives.

"The LibDems believe that decisions should be taken at the most local level possible, but it is very important that we have strong representation for Warwickshire, the rest of the West Midlands and the whole of the UK at European level to help combat those issues that do not respect national borders such as climate change, cross-border crime and the global recession.

"The LibDems have also been at the forefront of working to make the EU more transparent and accessible. Unlike some of the rabidly Euro- skeptic parties, we understand that to affect change you have to put in the hours and the work, not simply snipe from the sidelines."

Commenting on the relevance of upcoming European Elections to young people Liz said:

"For many young people including university students the forthcoming European elections are particularly important as it will be the first opportunity for young people to vote in major elections.

"The European Union has helped to provide many opportunities for young people; for example by opening up travel or study in other European Member States.

'As an MEP I have led a successful campaign for anti age discrimination legislation at a EU level to tackle the unjust discrimination that so many young people face, for example research shows that older teenagers receive less favourable treatment from health services than adults or younger children. The Government is now saying proposed new antidiscrimination laws should only apply to people over the age of 18; I say this is discrimination in itself.

ENDS