July 10th 2007 - Strasbourg - Modernising Labour Law to meet the Challenges of the 21st Century

Speech to Parliament               Strasbourg                                July 10th 2007                        

Modernising Labour Law to meet the Challenges of the 21st Century

In committee the rapporteur's first draft was not well received because he was trying to cut back on red tape and to reduce the regulations meant to protect workers but which in fact cause unemployment.

We are debating the second draft which was more acceptable, he had toned it down. A pity, it means we are to continue with many of the restrictive practices in the name of harmonisation, while all the time that which you fear is stealing up on you,  Globalisation.

For that, President, the EU will have to cope with competition on the free world markets, but you are not prepared for that.

Unless you learn to compete in Europe you will not be able to compete globally.

Footballers continually practice ball skills and team work, they do not prepare for a match by playing cards in a back street bar.

Likewise, continued practice in Europe's protectionist systems will mean defeat in the most competitive matches, played away on hostile global playing fields.

Derek Clark MEP                                                      

Strasbourg July 10th 2007