Mr President, I would also like to say how great it is to see how many of you turned out to hear this, my first speech in the European Parliament.

The world looks different from every angle. Recently I lost my favourite pair of glasses and was forced to wear an old battered pair that I had not seen since I left school not so long ago. Suddenly I looked at the world in a completely different way. It could be said that today's youth views the European Union through a set of lenses unlike any worn by their forefathers. We are not haunted by the horrors of the Second World War. Today the threat of a big conflict in Western Europe is as remote as England qualifying for the next World Cup. In this, the third report of its kind, the Union recognizes the importance of young people in shaping Europe. This week I have attended the European Youth Forum's unofficial Parliament and the question often raised was 'why can't we have a say in shaping our own future'? There is a real danger that Europe is seen as an invitation-only club that is entertaining business people. This report addresses these concerns and ensures that the more disadvantaged young citizens of th

e Community can have access to these exchanges. It focuses in particular on socially or geographically disadvantaged young people like those in my constituency of mid and west Wales. But before applauding too loudly we must ensure that information about these schemes is readily available to everyone and written in a way that even I might understand. Let us make sure that everyone gets to know about them; publicize them in an imaginative and effective way; target every possible group; and encourage every young person to visit and enjoy the many cultures that colour our Member States.

The role such exchanges can play in the European Union cannot be underestimated. They reinforce our democratic values, encourage tolerance and nurture cohesion. They are the most disarming weapons in the fight against racism and xenophobia. I felt I came of age when my father gave me the keys to his car and said 'from now on drive yourself'. He trusted me with his proudest possession. It is now time for the European Union to hand over its keys to young people and allow them to monitor their own projects. Do not patronise them. Give them responsibility and watch them respond positively. But do not expect conventional methods and jargon. Their language will be completely different. It would be nice to see a bit more plain speaking in this institution. Some politicians have perfected the art of using language to avoid straight questions. This report can and should help those who have not as yet participated in the European project. Let us hope that they take up this opportunity.

(Applause from the left)