Greenwich2000 - Community - Parliamentary Representation - Shaun Spiers MEP
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Shaun Spiers MEP
Member of the European Parliament for Bexley, Bromley and Greenwich
A lay persons guide to Europe
The European Union (EU) consists of 15 nations; Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the UK.
The powers of the union's institutions are strictly limited to those powers given by Treaties which implement agreements made by the 15 members. The EU does not have a general power to legislate on any issue it wishes to. Agriculture, the environment and trade are the main areas over which the EU has authority.
The most powerful institution in the EU is the Council of Ministers. This is a body in which the 15 representatives of the national Governments meet to make policy and agree laws.
The decisions of the Council are carried out by the Commission, as sort of European Civil Service. The Commission also has a role in drafting EU legislation.
The European Parliament is the only body directly elected by the people of Europe. The 626 MEPs have power over the EU budget (but excluding the half spent on farming !), can reject the Commissioners appointed by the national Governments and can amend, or in some cases veto, draft legislation.
The European Court of Justice interprets EU law when governments or individuals disagree on the meaning of legislation. It should not be confused with the European Court of Human Rights which is NOT part of the EU. (See Can I go to the European Court?).
Briefings or guides are available from Shaun's office on the following topics:
- The Cory Incinerator
- Older people in the European Union
- The European Courts
- The Single Currency - pros and cons
- Europe & Employee Rights
- Women in Europe
- Fighting Racism in Europe
- Funds from Europe
- Health & Safety at Work
- Lifelong learning .
For information on the EU, its polices and legislation contact Shaun's constituency office
Home Page | Pen Picture | Lay persons Guide to Europe | Contact Details | Other MEPs on the Web
Disclaimer: These pages have been provided by as a service to the people of Greenwich and their elected Member of European Parliament. Any views or opinions appearing here are those of Shaun Spiers MEP and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies or opinions of Cypass Limited or Greenwich 2000 Limited.
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