MEPs save bare-chested builders from the 'tan ban'

12.00.00am GMT Tue 14th Feb 2006

Liz Lynne MEP with bare-chested builders

Bare-chested builders were today saved from having to cover up, after MEPs passed a new EU directive without the so-called 'tan ban'.

Liz Lynne, West Midlands Liberal Democrat MEP and Shadow Rapporteur for the Optical Radiation Directive, has led the campaign to ensure sunlight was taken out of the directive. Under the original proposals, businesses would have been responsible for ensuring that employees working outside covered up.

In November, the European Parliament and Council of Ministers agreed to remove all reference to natural radiation, and MEPs voted today to accept the amended directive.

Speaking in Strasbourg, Liz Lynne said "Today's vote is a victory for common sense. It's been a long time coming, but builders have finally been guaranteed the right to decide for themselves if they want to work with their shirts off."

"The directive passed today is an important measure which will help protect workers from dangerous artificial radiation. But including a 'tan ban' would have taken the shine off an otherwise-sensible directive."

"As co-chair of MEPs Against Cancer, I am all too aware of the dangers of the sun, and everyone working outside must be properly informed. But it's unrealistic and unnecessary to make employers responsible."

"I am delighted the European Parliament has managed to avert yet more Brussels bureaucracy, and instead pass legislation which will be of real benefit to British workers."

ENDS

For further information, comment or to book an interview, please telephone Liz Lynne on 0033388177521 (Strasbourg) or 077644 52725 (mobile) or the Press Officer Steve Nowottny in Stratford-upon-Avon on 01789 262785.