POLLS open on Thursday next week in the biggest trans-national election in history.
Most people would be hard-pressed to name any of the nine Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) representing the North West region.
But the sheer scale of the European Parliament, based at Brussels and Strasbourg, cannot be ignored.
About 375m people in 27 countries are eligible to vote, as 736 MEPs are elected for a five-year term.
Liberal Democrat MEP Chris Davies is encouraging Cheshire Europeans to use their vote and believes the parliament is a vital part of an ever-evolving Europe.
He said: “I have been an MP twice before and in the House of Commons you have a choice – either sit in opposition and never win or be in government and do what you are told.
“Party politics is about exploiting differences but in the European Parliament we work together to agree what is best for everyone.
“When you vote in these elections, you are voting so that more people, who reflect your opinions best, are making these decisions.
“We have done an awful lot of work on subjects including climate change and environmental issues so anyone who says it is just a talking shop has not got their facts right.”
Retiring UK Independence Party North West MEP John Whittaker added: “I do my absolute best for the people of the North West and I can completely understand the public’s frustration and disillusion with all the major parties at the moment.
“However, I would urge people to use their vote because this parliament does have an impact on the public’s day-to-day lives and not a good one.
“More than 80% of new legislation comes from Europe and bypasses Westminster.”.
