Labour and Tories deny public vote on Europe - Burstow

11.16.53am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 20th Nov 2007

In an effort to ensure that the public has an opportunity to have their say on Europe, Paul Burstow, MP for Sutton and Cheam, tabled an amendment to the Queens Speech, laying out proposals for a referendum on the UK's continued membership of the European Union. The plan was blocked when Labour and Conservative voted together to block the referendum plan.

Commenting, Mr Burstow said:

"It's time the people had a say about our future in the European Union. Only a referendum on our membership will allow a real debate. What do Labour and the Conservatives MPs fear from a referendum? I am sorry that they united to reject Lib Dem calls for the public to vote on the UK's membership of the European Union.

"Once again the Conservative have shown their indecisiveness on the question of Europe. It is extraordinary that Conservative MPs would vote against a referendum on membership when they are fully aware that a substantial number of their own supporters would have one tomorrow if given the choice."

Notes:

1) Amendment to the Queen's Speech as follows:

Paul Burstow MP

Dr Vincent Cable MP

Michael Moore MP

Julia Goldsworthy MP

David Heath MP

Simon Hughes MP

'.. but humbly regret that the Gracious Speech fails to announce proposals for a referendum on the United Kingdom's continued membership of the European Union.'.