European Parliament and TTIP

GMB: The union top health and safety officer expressed concern that TTIP would allow a downward harmonization of standards for chemicals currently banned in the EU. In separate comments, GMB called for the UK to ensure the National Health Service is protected from private companies if the trade deal goes ahead, according to Russia Today. The European Parliament will vote on TTIP on Wednesday June 10, having already passed a non-binding resolution in favor of the trade agreement last month. The GMB said chemicals that can cause cancerous tumors, birth defects and development disorders will be allowed in the EU after the controversial trade agreement is signed. Proponents of TTIP say the deal to remove trade barriers between the EU and US will drive growth and create jobs. However, critics argue that the agreement, which has been negotiated behind closed doors, will weaken the EU health and safety regulations. Research shows that TTIP could inject €120 billion into the EU economy, the European Commission claims. (news.financializer.com). As reported in the news.