The GPMU's Euro-MPs work hard to make sure European laws improve working life for union members. Gary Titley MEP reveals what's on the agenda right now. Europe has scarcely been out of the news recently. And that's hardly surprising - the last few weeks have brought a wave of important developments that will have a big impact on us all, both now and in the future.

Back in January, it was the launch of euro notes and coins that was grabbing the headlines. With the new currency's successful introduction in 12 EU countries, attention has now switched to the future intentions of the three remaining non-eurozone members - Sweden, Denmark and Britain.

The Nordic duo could well hold referenda on euro membership within the next 18 months. How Britain eventually answers the euro question will depend on whether we think jobs and prosperity here will be easier to secure alone or by working towards a common purpose with other countries. What is clear, though, is that we will have to decide soon.

Perhaps of more immediate concern to GPMU members is progress with European legislation that impacts directly on the workplace. In February, MEPs approved new EU rules requiring British companies with 50-plus employees to consult workers on all major decisions, including restructuring and changes in contractual relations.

The new Information and Consultation Directive will come into force in three years' time in most EU states, but the UK and Ireland will have a six-year transitional period. For the first time, employees across the EU will have the legal right to know about their companies' plans and express their views.

Also in February, MEPs gave final agreement to new working hour limits for long-distance commercial transport drivers. The legislation, which closes one of the last gaps in the 1993 Working Time Directive, establishes a 48-hour week, averaged over six months, and sets down new rules covering night work and break times.

Above all, this is about health and safety. Time at the wheel - sometimes in excess of 80 hours per week - is dangerous both for long-haul bus and truck drivers themselves and the traveling public.

Spending on public sector contracts was another key issue to feature on the European Parliament's February Strasbourg agenda. Across the EU, public procurement amounts to an astonishing £40 billion per year. Now its entire framework is under review.

Labour Euro-MPs have tabled amendments to encourage good employment and equal opportunity practices. They include one designed to ensure that sheltered work schemes, employing people with disabilities, will be given preferential treatment.

February also saw the launch of the European Convention. Made up of national parliamentarians and government representatives, MEPs and the European Commission, the Convention's remit is to prepare a blueprint for radical EU reform to make it more open, responsive and relevant to its citizens.

Date updated: 01 May 2002