E.U. law provides agency workers with the right to equal treatment, and all workers with maximum working hours. It forces governments to take environmental legislation seriously, and to protect air and water standards.

In this quote, Clive Lewis, a British politician and advocate for progressive policies, highlights the positive aspects of E.U. law in ensuring fair treatment for workers and protecting the environment. He emphasizes that agency workers are granted the right to equal treatment, a key provision within European Union regulations aimed at preventing discrimination and exploitation in the workplace. Additionally, the E.U. sets standards for maximum working hours, ensuring that workers' rights are safeguarded against overwork, a fundamental part of labor rights legislation.

Lewis also points out the role of E.U. law in holding governments accountable for environmental protection. He argues that the E.U. forces national governments to take environmental legislation seriously, specifically in terms of maintaining air and water quality standards. This reflects the European Union’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental responsibility, ensuring that member states uphold essential environmental regulations to protect public health and natural resources.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Lewis’s political advocacy, particularly his support for workers' rights and environmental issues. As a Member of Parliament, Lewis has consistently championed the implementation of E.U. policies that promote social justice and environmental sustainability. His statement reflects his broader belief in the role of strong, enforceable regulations in safeguarding both workers' welfare and the environment, particularly in the context of European integration.

Ultimately, Lewis’s quote underscores the dual importance of labor rights and environmental protection within E.U. law. By framing these protections as essential to a fair and sustainable society, he highlights how E.U. regulations contribute to both social equity and environmental well-being. This serves as an argument for maintaining such laws in the face of challenges, especially as some countries consider their relationship with the European Union in the context of Brexit and other political changes.