Biography.
The Labour Party is the Party of equality and social inclusion. I have always had a strong commitment to women's rights, and act as Labour Spokesperson in the European Parliament Women's Rights Committee. Before becoming an MEP, I spent some time as Chief Executive of the lone parent charity Gingerbread and Treasurer of Emily's List, which provides support to Labour women wishing to enter Parliament.
I am also Labour Spokesperson on the Culture and Education Committee. I have been especially interested in media issues, including a recent Directive to improve the regulation of audiovisual services.
In addition to Women's Rights and Culture and Education, I sit on the Industry, Research and Energy Committee where I have responsibility for new technology and communications matters. I have been very involved in issues such as the provision of broadband and mobile telephone charging.
Since becoming an MEP in 2000, I have shown a strong interest in Cyprus. Prior to Cyprus's accession I was a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee with the Cyprus Parliament which examined matters around joining the EU. I have continued to keep in touch with the Cypriot community in London and visit the island regularly.
From 2004 to 2006 I was the Whip for the European Parliamentary Labour Party.
Immediately prior to being elected to the European Parliament, I was General Secretary of the Association of Chief Officers of Probation. I have also been a senior manager with SCOPE, the cerebral palsy charity and general secretary of a local council for voluntary service.
Having been active in the Labour Party for over 30 years, I have been involved in my local community at various levels. I was a school governor for nearly 20 years and am currently a member of the University of Surrey Roehampton Court.
I am a longstanding member of the Co-operative Party, having served on the London Co-op Political Committee for almost 10 years. I am a member of UNISON trade union.
