Press Release

Hold Blair to Account: Global Vision Insists on Referendum 

Global Vision, the new business backed campaign calling for a looser relationship between the UK and EU, insists that any new European treaty must be put to the British electorate in a referendum.

Tony Blair’s decision to renege on the promise of a referendum illustrates the Government’s contempt for British democracy and complete disregard of the opinions of the electorate.

In fact, Global Vision found that 51% of those questioned in a recent ICM poll preferred for Britain to be in a looser arrangement with Europe where there would be free trade and cooperation on common policies, but opting out of political and economic integration. A further 23% wanted outright withdrawal. Three out of four, therefore, were dissatisfied with the current relationship with the EU.  A referendum on any new treaty would no doubt reflect this, and thus see Tony Blair’s efforts to further entrench the UK in the EU rejected by the people.

The Prime Minister has stated, “If it’s not a constitutional treaty, so that it alters the basic relationship between Europe and the member states, then there isn’t the same case for a referendum.”

However, Ruth Lea, Director of Global Vision, argues that, "There is no doubt that any new EU treaty will affect this country significantly - especially if qualified majority voting is to be extended. Every treaty means further political integration in Europe and it is disingenuous or dishonest to suggest otherwise. The Prime Minister knows this. The British people are entitled to the referendum they were promised.

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1.  For full results of the Global Vision/ICM poll, visit
http://www.global-vision.net/opinionpolls1.asp