Letter to Stephen Hughes MEP. Objection to 48 hour week

This is only one of many letters that are demanding that Stephen Hughes explain his reasoning and explain where and when he has consulted business.

If anyone wishes to comment in the press you can write to the Journal jnl.letters@ncjmedia.co.uk or the Northern Echo echo@nne.co.uk

Stephen Hughes MEP
Room 38/4
County Hall
Durham
DH1 5UR

19th May 2005

Dear Stephen,

It greatly concerns me that you have not only voted to end our opt out on the 48 Hour Working Time Directive, but as Leader of the Socialist Group in the European Parliament you were instrumental in this action.

It beggars belief that this was not supported in the Labour Party Manifesto, and therefore the Government elected should have no mandate to even implement this.

You have no right to dictate to me or anyone else how many hours I wish to work and I will decide that, not you or your colleagues in the European Parliament. I choose to work the hours I work. I am not forced to do anything.

I can foresee massive public opposition to this as it dawns on the British public what you have done.

Because of the potential impact this legislation will have on the North East workforce I would be grateful for details of all consultations you have conducted with North East businesses and all the reports you have prepared.

I demand that you, as my elected representative, hold a series of public meetings in order to explain the reason by your decision. Perhaps then you will find that your view is not a majority one, and nor are you speaking on behalf of the people.

I understand that the European Parliament has designated this week, “Yellow Week”, where British MEP’s deal with concerns of their constituents. I am very disappointed despite numerous requests, that you have avoided the opportunity to personally accept mine and others written concerns.

However, I look forward to a response by return as to where and when you will be holding your series of public meetings.

Yours sincerely

Neil Herron

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"Delegation opposing 48-hour working rule"