European Manifesto 2009 

The European elections in 2009 will shape the European Union for the next decade. All of Europe's Socialist, Social Democratic and Labour parties have an ambition of a common manifesto.

Details at www.michaelcashmanmep.org.uk

Achievements in the workplace secured by Labour MEPs

1. signed Britain up to the Social Chapter, giving British workers the rights already enjoyed by continental colleagues;

2. implemented EU wide Laws on working time, limiting the length of time workers can be obliged by their employer to work to 48 hours per week;

3. required, for the first time in Britain, a guaranteed right to paid holiday;

4. brought in the European works council laws giving new rights to workers in transnational companies;

5. introduced proper procedures for information and consultation of workers on all significant changes affecting companies with over 50 employees;

6. reversed the burden of proof in discrimination cases, putting the onus on employers to prove that they do not discriminate;

7. give both parents the right to time off when a child is born or adopted;

8. brought in measures to give part time workers the same rights as full time workers as regards training, pensions, maternity rights and leave;

9. improved the rights of temporary workers regarding pay and paid leave;

10. adopted common standards on numerous aspects of health and safety at work, including extra protection for workers using machinery which vibrates.