Loch, stock and two parliamentary seats

By Martin Banks - 16th February 2011

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What do MEPs and the Loch Ness Monster have in common?

The question is pertinent since a comparison between the two was drawn by S&D leader Martin Schulz at his pre-plenary press conference in Strasbourg on Tuesday.

Asked about the latest campaign to scrap parliament's split-seat arrangement between Brussels and Strasbourg, the German deputy, somewhat curiously, said, "I've been an MEP since 1994 and, apart from the Loch Ness Monster, there is no other subject I have had to deal with so comprehensively as the single-seat issue."

Confused? So are we.

Actually, Nessie and MEPs may have more in common than you think.

Consider this Wikipedia definition: "Popular interest and belief (in the animal) has fluctuated since it was brought to the world's attention.

"Evidence of its existence is anecdotal, with minimal and much-disputed photographic material."

"It is regarded as a modern-day myth."

This is, in fact, a description of the elusive creature reputed to inhabit Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands and not your local MEP.