The Council of Europe was formed just after the Second World War and with Winston Churchill’s solid approval. It was always designed as a forum to ensure that politicians kept talking rather than going to war with one another. It preceded the European Parliament and has survived intact. I am an enthusiastic member and now chair the conservative group. My job is to build bridges with like-minded representatives from all over Europe whenever the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council is in session – and this week it is. We will be discussing some very topical and controversial issues including the migration crisis and terrorism. I always try to bring a dose of Somerset common sense to these debates.
MP for Bridgwater and West Somerset
