Liberal Democrats back introduction of European Health Insurance Card

12.00.00am GMT Thu 4th Dec 2003

Employment and Social Affairs Committee Member Liz Lynne MEP has welcomed the European Parliament's decision today to back proposals drafted by European Liberal Democrat Danish MEP Anne Jenson to introduce a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Speaking after the vote, Liz Lynne said:

"This decision takes us one step nearer to a truly barrier free Europe. No longer will people be forced to plough through an array of forms in order to get healthcare in other EU countries. Instead, they will have a single card that can be used anywhere. The E111 form is to pass into distant memory.

"This will be of particular value to people with long term chronic illnesses as they will be able to travel throughout the European Union without worrying. But it will be one less hassle for all travellers, workers and students living within the European Union."