Chris tops EU league

OLDHAM MEP Chris Davies has topped a league table comparing the performance of representatives at the European Parliament.

The Liberal Democrat has spoken more often, tabled more questions, and has the best attendance record of the eight MEPs who represent the North-West.

The figures compiled by independent organisation Votewatch.eu are based on the European Parliament’s own records since elections were held last year.

Mr Davies came first after making 34 speeches in the Parliament, while second place went to British National Party leader Nick Griffin, who spoke 14 times during the year. Fellow Oldham MEP Arlene McCarthy came fifth with 11 speeches.

UKIP’s representative, Paul Nuttall, claimed the record for absenteeism, being present on only half of the days that the Parliament was in session.

Mr Davies said: “A lot of work goes on behind the scenes but parliamentary debates do provide an opportunity to put ideas on record and to hold the European Commission to public account.”