Martin Banks
Previously, he had worked for many years in regional journalism in the UK and freelanced for national titles.
He has a keen interest in foreign affairs and has closely followed the workings of the European Parliament and MEPs in particular for some years.
Ukraine will be “front and centre” at EU summit this week
The EU commission President Ursula von der Leyen has again thrown her weight fully behind Ukraine following fresh…
Europe’s nicotine policy dilemma: can tougher rules curb smoking without fuelling the illicit market?
Eight member states are reportedly calling on the EU to freeze the introduction of new products containing nicotine,…
Uncertainty still facing businesses in EU
A new EU wide survey paints a picture of “fragile stability” for Europe’s small businesses. It says that…
Volunteers needed for annual Poppy Appeal in Belgium
This year's Belgian Poppy Appeal in Belgium will be launched in Antwerp on 17 October. The appeal will…
Innovation the “key” to tackling Europe’s housing crisis, says EESC
Modern construction methods can help lower housing costs and boost supply, according to European Economic and Social Committee (EESC).…
New expo in Brussels to celebrate 160 years of ties between Belgium and Japan
A special expo has been launched to mark 160 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Japan. Throughout…
Plastic surgery -more “bespoke tailoring” than “ready-to-wear”
The craft of plastic surgery is arguably widely misunderstood because people often confuse it with cosmetic enhancement alone.…
EU’s “growing debt” could put increasing pressure on future budgets – auditors warn
The EU’s financial watchdog has warned that the estimated level of error in EU spending “remains too high.”…
Free temporary parking permits for Ixelles residents
Residents of a busy Brussels suburb whose garages become inaccessible due to roadworks can now benefit from a…
Warm tributes paid to UK novelist Jeffrey Archer
A former government minister in the UK has paid glowing tribute to politician and author Jeffrey Archer, describing…
Nearly one in six women in European Parliament targeted by “digital violence”
Scores of female MEPs have been targeted by deepfake pornography websites, it has been revealed. The sites are…
Busy week ahead for MEPs in Strasbourg
A senior EU political leader has spoken out again “intolerable” violence against women. Speaking on Monday, Roberta Metsola…
Answer to fragmentation “cannot be isolation”
In a world marked by growing conflict, disinformation and fragmentation, Europe "needs more dialogue, not less." That was…
Europe’s future will depend on whether it can remain “secure, competitive and confident “
The war in Ukraine has “shattered the illusion that Europe can take its security for granted.” That was…
Greens welcome “new momentum” for UK re-joining the EU.
The European Greens has welcomed what they call the “new momentum” for Britain to rejoin the EU. This…