Get to know your MEP

So, did you vote in last month's European Parliament (EP) elections? Given the very low turnout - just 34% - I am betting that many of you probably didn't bother.

That's your democratic right, of course; but I am reminded of the old adage 'bad politicians are elected by good citizens who do not vote'. Anyway, Europe now has such a big direct impact on our businesses that it is high time we took more of an interest in the mechanisms (and machinations) of the EU institutions.

With the dust settling, the big election shock was the success of Europe's centre-right parties who have triumphed over those on the left of the political spectrum.

We should not necessarily assume this means there will be a more pro-business approach in the EP, but the dominant EPP-ED centre-right political grouping is now stronger than ever, and it has traditionally been seen as more balanced in its approach to some of the tricky issues that impact our sector. And the success of the centre-right parties may also mean that the next college of Commissioners may not be as 'consumerist' as some had feared.

From a UK perspective, the key issue remains one of influence. How will the Conservatives fit into the bigger picture? We know that the 25 Tory MEPs will not join the EPP-ED and are instead forming a new group which still needs official status if it is to have any clout in the Parliament.

Such political horse trading may leave you cold, but there's just no escaping the importance of Europe for UK business. That's why the Food and Drink Federation focuses so much effort on trying to influence the way that future EU regulation is developed. But you too could play a key role. As well as paying closer attention to what is happening in Brussels, why not find out which MEPs represent your region, invite them to your company and make sure they get a taste of what life is really like in Europe's biggest manufacturing sector?

I know they would find such an experience invaluable. And it would support our efforts.

Julian Hunt director of communications at the Food and Drink Federation www.fdf.org.uk​