CAMPAIGNING is now in full swing for the European Elections on May 22.

Most of the electioneering seems to be focussing on immigration and on whether or not Britain should be in or out of Europe.

However there are other discussions taking place which potentially could have a massive implication for Britain.

I am referring to two separate trade agreements currently in the pipeline between North America and Europe.

If implemented it seems that foreign investors/ companies would be allowed to challenge government measures that could harm their profitability.

This in turn could have serious implications for regulations governing the environment.

In addition, according to Dr Richard Taylor writing in The Oldie, if the NHS is not excluded from these trade discussions then private US companies can move in on the NHS and will be able to sue the government if contracts are cancelled. (remember  Dr Taylor? He was elected to Parliament in 2001 in Wyre Forest with an 18,000 majority as an Independent MP on a single issue – preventing the closure of his local hospital.)

Of all the televised European election broadcasts I have seen only the Green party has specifically mentioned these ongoing trade negotiations and their implications.

These trade agreements have to be ratified by the European Parliament.

When it comes to casting your vote on May 22 (I believe it important that everyone should vote) please bear in mind that the issues are more important than just immigration and/or an in/out referendum.

Choose to vote for a party that will  scrutinise and  challenge these trade deals.

– David Rees, St Briavels.