Canvey could face a threat to its island status, thanks to the European Union.
The new European plan reckons places which are attached to the mainland by "a rigid structure" should not be described as islands.
Status - Canvey and Foulness could lose their island title Picture: DAVE HENDERSON
This would rule out Canvey, Foulness and dozens of other islands across the country, many of which rely on European aid because they are separated from the mainland.
Appalled Castle Point MP Bob Spink branded the idea as an early April Fool's Day joke.
He said: "I class this in the same category as having straight bananas, and lawnmower noise directives, and I think it's total and utter nonsense.
"What right has has Europe to interfere with Canvey people, their heritage and their traditions, particularly at a time when we are commemorating the loss of 58 people in the floods which devastated the island 50 years ago?"
Published Thursday, January 23, 2003
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