THE European Union saves lives and helps keep us safe.

People will have seen news reports of the Ebola outbreak spreading through Africa. It was confirmed this week that a case has been diagnosed in America. It is a terrible illness which causes great pain and suffering. More than 3,000 people have died so far.

The EU voted recently to give significant funds to help stop the outbreak and to make sure that Europe is prepared should there be cases among EU nationals.

We know that the people of the North-East are generous and are big supporters of people who are in need. The truth is that, as individuals, we cannot stop Ebola, and even the UK Government would struggle. Together, the nations within the EU have the resources to be able to help those who are suffering. This will help to keep us safe and help people in desperate need.

Jude Kirton-Darling and Paul Brannen, Labour MEPs for the North-East