Telford’s voice in Westminster
Most people agree our relationship with the EU must change, as it is no longer working for Britain. At the General Election in May 2015, the Conservatives promised to negotiate for change and deliver a referendum.
The Prime Minister has been working hard to get the best deal for Britain. The leaders of EU states are only negotiating with us because there is to be a referendum. These negotiations have been difficult; some progress has been made and this is welcome.
For some this deal does not represent the fundamental change that had been expected. The question now is whether the EU is willing to make further concessions. I am disappointed with the way EU leaders have approached these negotiations and how they have responded to our Prime Minister’s reasonable requests for change.
The negotiations have focused on four areas.
UK Sovereignty: the proposals if agreed, will remove us from the EU's aim of "ever closer Union". There are also proposals for a "red card” to stop EU laws unsuited for Britain. I am concerned this system may be impracticable.
Competitiveness and creating jobs: the draft agreement contains proposals to cut "red tape" which causes problems for business. I want to hear what business leaders say these changes will make for them.
The Euro: as we did not join Euro, Britain needs protection against EU rules, which discriminate against us. The current proposals have protections and an exemption for Britain, should EU Countries need to be bailed out again. I want to be clear about the possible risks posed by weak economies in Southern and Eastern Europe.
Reducing immigration from Europe: economic migration to the UK from the EU has exceeded all expectations: this is because of our strong economy. The draft agreement contains proposals that may reduce incentives for economic migration. I want to see what impact these proposals will have on migration.
The fundamental question is whether Britain can be its most successful, prosperous and secure inside or outside the EU. Whilst I would like to see further concessions, and I believe the Prime Minister will improve on the deal he has secured, we should not be afraid of a Britain outside the EU. We have a strong economy, a strong Government and whatever the outcome of the referendum, the future looks bright for Telford.