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		Fury as EU plans to scrap Red Ensign Monday, 28th November 2005 Roger Helmer MEP has reacted with dismay to the news that the European Commission is to revive a plan to scrap the famous Red Ensign - despite a successful campaign led by Conservative MEPs in the European Parliament against the idea two years ago. Mr Helmer said the latest Commission maritime safety recommendations make clear that the development of 'a European flag' on all EU merchant shipping flags would, in the Commission's view, help recognition at sea of vessels meeting the strictest European and international safety standards. The Commission stated that its objective was "to require member states to thoroughly check that ships flying their flags comply with international standards, and therefore to have a maritime administration which strictly applies the quality criteria. Stepping up responsibility in this way is the precursor to the future development of a European flag." Mr Helmer has accused the Commission of trying to sneak the proposal in 'by the back door' and said: "Conservative MEPs led the campaign against this barmy idea the last time it was put forward two years ago. We succeeded then but I suppose we should not be surprised that the Commission is resurrecting this plan under a new guise, given past form. They never take NO for an answer. "We want our ships to fly our national flag. Nothing is more recognisable at sea than the Red Ensign. The idea of flying an EU flag is offensive and defies common sense and centuries of tradition. "The Red Ensign has always symbolised the highest safety standards. Our merchant fleet is the envy of the EU."