Frequently Asked Questions

What do MEPs do?

• Over the years, the European Parliament has evolved into an institution with significant law making powers. MEPs have the power to amend, approve or reject nearly all EU legislation... Read more

Is the European Union democratic?

• The European Parliament is the directly elected body of the EU and has the important democratic function of carrying out checks and balances with regard to the European Commission and the Council of Ministers. Today... Read more

What can my MEP do for me?

• Around a thousand constituents get in touch with Fiona each year asking for her help on local, regional, national and international issues. Read more

• You can email Fiona on fiona@fionahallmep.co.uk, call her on 0191 383 0119 or write to her at 55a Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3HN.

What are MEP expenses?

• At present, members receive the same salary as members of their national parliament. However as of 2009... Read more

Why should the UK be in the EU?

• As a member of the EU, the UK has access to a Single Market of nearly 500 million people - twice the size of the US. This is particularly valuable... Read more

Isn't the EU just a big bureaucracy?

• Although the EU is often described as the world's biggest bureaucracy, the City of London and other major European cities actually employ... Read more

EU Advice

For advice on living in the EU and more information on the European Parliament, read here