West MEP challenges schools to take part in 'Spring Day in Europe'

12.14.14pm GMT Thu 2nd Feb 2006

Graham Watson, Lib Dem MEP for the South West and Gibraltar, today challenged schools across his constituency to take part in Spring Day 2006.

Spring Day "Debating our Future" is a project taking place across the EU, promoting learning and debate in schools across the continent. Mr Watson expressed his disappointment at the poor take up to date by schools in the UK:

"Out of 3117 schools who have registered to take part in Spring Day, only 41 are British and only 3 of these are from the South West. I would like to see schools across the South West encourage their pupils to debate the future of Europe, EU legislation, and improve their awareness of the Millennium Development Goals through exciting activities such as role-playing Commissioners and MEPs."

Currently 78 schools have registered from countries outside the European Union - almost double the number taking part in the UK - and applicant country Romania is fielding 717 participating schools.

Note to Editors:

Spring Day 2006 "Debating our Future" takes place on 21st March and 9th May 2006.

Schools can register at www.springday2006.org.