Labour MEPs have been working hard to build a new Europe that delivers for everyone, not just the few. As we begin our preparations for the 2009 European Elections we can look back with pride at what we have achieved so far.

It was Europe that inspired last year’s groundbreaking deal on climate change in Bali. It was Europe that championed a whole host of new rights for consumers. And it was Europe that led the way on aid and trade deals to help the world’s poorest countries.

The ratification process for the Lisbon Treaty is now under way. Once completed in all 27 member countries, Europe will finally be able to concentrate on tackling the things that really matter to our constituents and make a real difference to people’s lives.

Issues such as the environment, migration, human rights, people trafficking, security and terrorism respect no national borders. They demand speedy coordinated responses at the European level, complementing local and national action. Working closely with our Socialist Group colleagues, Labour MEPs are ready to meet those challenges.

Contrast our positive and practical, forward-looking approach to the Tories. They are inconsistent and isolated, totally incapable of providing real answers to the great challenges and threats that now confront us.

That is why, with your help, Labour can win in June 2009.