22-09-03

John Barrett MP calls for Referendum

John Barrett, Scottish Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West today called on the Government to hold a referendum on the proposed European Constitution as part of a programme of making the EU more open and accountable.

Mr Barrett made the call after a debate on Europe at the Liberal Democrat Conference in Brighton in which the party's manifesto for next year's European elections "Common Problems, Shared Solutions" was officially adopted.

Conference was also addressed by Diana Wallis, the leader of the Liberal Democrat MEP's, who predicted strong gains for the party in the 2004 elections, confirmed by the stunning success of the Liberal Democrats in last weeks Brent East bi-election.

Commenting, John Barrett said:

"There is much in the European Union which Scotland and the UK continues to benefit from. At the same time though, there is a great deal of work to do to make the EU more open, accountable and relevant.

"By reforming the European institutions, we can work with our country neighbours more effectively to tackle issues like Environmental Pollution, Barriers to Trade, International Crime and Global Poverty. This positive manifesto which the Liberal Democrats have adopted today sets out a framework for achieving these aims by reforming the EU and streamlining its decision-making processes.

"It is also important for the Government to trust the people to decide on the issue of the European Constitution as part of reengaging people with the EU. However, despite the clear demand for a referendum the government has stubbornly refused to deliver. Clearly they neither trust nor wish to hear the views of the British People."

For more information please contact Edinburgh West Constituency Office on 0131 339 0339

ENDS