One of the funniest Euro websites to emerge in recent years is the Euromyth watchdog site. Every week the media reports on more crazy directives from Brussels.

The British press is particularly fond of taking new EU rulings and looking for possible absurd side effects. Check out www.cec.org.uk/press/myths/index.htm for some very funny Euro myths - here are just a few stories that have been reported in the British press in the last few years.

"Europe bans smoky bacon crisps" - the Sunday Times, May 4th, 2003

Fact: To be certain that smoky flavourings do not pose a health risk, the proposed directive would establish a proper testing system applicable across the whole of the EU. However there is no proposal to ban smoky bacon crisps.

"Double-decker buses to be outlawed by the EU" - Daily Telegraph, April 9th, 1998

Fact: While EU legislation means that buses should become safer to ride in, there are no moves to outlaw the double-decker bus.

"Tightrope walkers to wear hard hats, says Brussels" - The Times, July 23rd, 2003

Fact: New EU laws have been introduced to protect workers who operate at height in an industrial or construction context. There is no mention of hard hats for circus performers.

"Mother Christmas outfits demanded after sex discrimination ruling from Brussels" - The Sun, October 24th, 2001

Fact: EU rules aim to prevent discrimination against female employees at work and have nothing at all to do with the characteristics of goods sold in shops.

"Prawns need a rest while travelling" - the Times, the Daily Telegraph and the Daily Mail, January 29th, 1996

Fact: A directive on the protection of animals during transport does include shellfish but only by requiring treatment appropriate to the species concerned.

Rest periods are required only for larger animals such as cattle.