Words across Europe

If you are tired of domestic television or sixty second clips of trifles on YouTube (or are possibly experiencing sleep problems) you can always watch the European Parliament live (sic) - and thankfully free of charge - in plenary session, or in committees at:
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/wps-europarl-internet/faces/live/live-video.jsp
There is likely to be a more than usually interesting session in a couple of months time since the chances are growing that United States President Barack Obama will accept the invitation to speak in the European Parliament.

The President's address is likely during his visit to Europe for the G20 and NATO Summits that are scheduled for 1 - 4 April, with the most probable date for the speech being Friday April 3rd. The above link would allow you to view his speech as it is delivered to the parliament.
Of course, events could still disrupt the best-laid plans. In an unlikely to be repeated episode, George Bush accepted an invitation to speak in March 2004, but his visit fell through because of one important detail - his insistence that he must receive a standing ovation (otherwise he thought that he risked looking bad on American television).
On a lighter and much more politically astute note, back in the 1980s Ronald Reagan addressed the European Parliament. In the middle of his speech Labour MEPs and some Socialists (distinction noted) walked out of the chamber waving banners. President Reagan, adept as ever at the telling one-liner, patiently watched them leave then commented to the members that remained: "Gee, if only I could get rid of my opponents in Congress as easily as that" - and received a deserved ovation!
Times, of course, are much changed, and given the extensive ramifications of the deep and international economic recession and the ever-present international peace and security concerns, President Obama’s address is keenly anticipated in Europe and beyond.