Let's have a REAL vote on Europe

5.07.00pm GMT Mon 25th Feb 2008

Stephen Robinson and the Lib Dems want a referendum on EU membership

Chelmsford Lib Dem Stephen Robinson has called today for a full public debate about the European Union. He said, "Unlike the Conservatives, I have always wanted a proper debate. A generation ago we had a referendum on whether to stay in the EEC or leave; I (and my Liberal Democrat colleagues) say we should have another one now.

"It never ceases to amaze me that the Conservatives can say one thing today, having done the complete opposite when in Government. The Conservatives gave many more powers to the European Union than are proposed now - without ever contemplating asking the British public in a referendum.

"Their call for a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty is a side show to the real debate on Europe, which they are afraid to have with the British people. If there were a referendum on the Treaty of Lisbon, many people would try to make it an "In or Out" debate.

"So let's HAVE that debate - a Europe referendum that really matters. We have an online petition calling for a real referendum at www.ourcampaign.org.uk/europe

"We should judge the Conservatives by what they do rather than what they say. They never gave Britain a referendum on the European single market or the Maastricht treaty; they took many powers over local public services away from local communities, and their Councillors today are still taking decisions that damage the environment. Yet they tell us that they believe the opposite."

Stephen Robinson

Chelmsford Liberal Democrat Parliamentary candidate