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		‘Keep the Crown’ say MEPs Wednesday, 28th March 2007 East Midlands Conservative MEPs Roger Helmer and Chris Heaton-Harris have today criticised a European Union ruling that could see the end of the much-loved traditional crown stamp on our pint glasses. From now on, only the European CE mark, which stands for Conformite Europeenne and certifies that the item in question confirms to EU standards will be permitted on new pint glasses used in pubs and clubs across the UK. The move has angered leading figures in the drinks industry and ordinary pub punters as well as both MEPs who have called on the Government to negotiate an exemption clause to preserve the traditional symbol. Speaking today, Mr Helmer said he was furious at the new directive: “It is just another part or our heritage that is being swept away by this juggernaut called Brussels. It is an outrageous piece of legislation that nobody has asked for, nobody has voted for and certainly nobody wants. It is wholly undemocratic.” Mr Heaton- Harris added: “It is typical of this government and the European Commission to try and force Britain to become more European. I have been contacted by many local constituents who are furious at what they see as yet more unnecessary interference from Brussels.”