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Nicholson Highlights Property Scams in Spain, Bulgaria and Turkey

Conservative and Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has raised his concerns over serious problems regarding " the right of ownership" which continues to cause dozens of his constituents and indeed many EU citizens who have invested in property in countries such as Spain, Bulgaria and Turkey in the European Parliament in Strasbourg last week.

Mr Nicholson commented " I have received complaints from constituents regarding problems arising from property deals in all of these countries. Many face financial ruin and general heartache after finding themselves in situations whereby complex zoning laws and urbanisation policies have meant that their properties have been seized without any compensation.

"It is of great concern to me that more definitive action has not been taken by the EU.The legality and morality of these practises is at best questionable and at worst unveils a corrupt approach to urban development.

"With this in mind I spoke on this issue in the European Parliament in Strasbourg last week .

"I have contacted the President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso and the Embassy's of the countries in question. I have also raised this with fellow MEP's from the regions affected.

" I urge the EU to do all in its power to ensure that citizens' rights are protected and to force the relevant authorities to adequately compensate victims. For example, at the moment in Spain, this process is proving to be an arduous and lengthy task for individuals, which more often than not results in a totally unsatisfactory outcome.

"This is a very serious matter with millions of Euros at stake and must be resolved.

I will leave no stone unturned in my quest to gain answers for my constituent's and ensure that EU citizen's who choose to invest abroad can do so with confidence in the future."