London MEP welcomes expected green light for Turkey EU talks

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Sun 5th Oct 2003

London's Liberal Democrat MEP Baroness Sarah Ludford, gives her full support to Wednesday's expected recommendation by the European Commission that EU membership negotiations be opened with Turkey as the political and economic criteria have been sufficiently fulfilled.

Sarah Ludford said: "Turkey has made a big effort in the last 5 years and deserves a green light for EU talks. I also though support the approach whereby the EU should monitor not only pledges but concrete reforms from candidate countries; we need more than lip-service to change.

"So even though torture may have ceased to be systematic, it is the continuing practice that must be eradicated, and the EU should play a central role in monitoring the progress of reforms as membership talks advance.

"Turkey's accession would have a big impact, and there will be hiccups on the way to a successful conclusion. But the prize of a dynamic and vigorous secular Muslim country with a rich history and culture joining the EU is one worth fighting for."