MP says cost reduction and repatriation will be litmus test of success
John Baron MP has today urged the Prime Minister to seize the moment in pressing for clear reforms of the EU which repatriate key powers and reduce the costs of membership
John said,
“The Party must learn from past mistakes and get on the front foot. No 10 tried ignoring and insulting UKIP. It was dragged kicking and screaming to a referendum and then legislation. This reluctance to face the issue must now give way to a conviction to reform and repatriate.”
“The Prime Minister now accepts the EU is too bossy, too big and too interfering. For many of us, the litmus test of how much it is cut down to size will be the scale of reduction in the UK’s bill and the extent of powers returned. Vague promises about ‘a better deal for Britain’ or a renewed focus on jobs and growth will no longer wash – actions speak louder than words.”
“One concrete example needs to be reform of the Freedom of Movement principle which is now past its sell-by date given the EU has 28 members with disparate living standards. It is incoherent for us to have targets when we cannot control a major component of our immigration. Pressure on infrastructure requires action.”
“Stating he will argue to stay in the EU in any referendum is not the most convincing place to start any negotiations, so it is crucial the Prime Minister sets out his agenda if voters are to believe him about reform.”
Ends
Word Count: 271
Date: 28th May 2014
John Baron will not post replies to any comments - to contact John please Click here or alternatively for a full list of contact details Click here