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		“Partnership better than membership” for Turkey Wednesday, 28th September 2005 Strasbourg – As the question of Turkish membership of the EU comes under debate, East Midlands Conservative MEP Roger Helmer today spoke to a packed Parliament in favour of a "Privileged Partnership" for Turkey with the EU, rather than full membership. He claimed that the idea of a "Privileged Partnership", originally proposed by German CDU leader Angela Merkel, would offer most of the benefits of EU membership without the costs. In a dramatic twist, Helmer concluded that such a relationship would also be a better deal for the UK than our current membership. Accession negotiations with Turkey are due to commence in October, but face deep- seated reservations across EU countries. Turkey's large and growing population, its low level of economic development, serious human rights concerns and its historical, cultural, ethnic and religious differences from Europe are all causes of concern. French President Jacques Chirac has promised the French people a referendum on Turkey’s accession, with most commentators agreeing that France would probably reject Turkish membership. Commenting on the debate, Helmer said: "I am concerned that the Turks see the privileged partnership as a rebuff and a snub. I am trying to help them see that it would be a better deal than full membership. And such a partnership could be better for Britain too". See also the text of  Roger's speech