IWR in the news

21/01/08

Scots to get Euro poll denied by Labour

By Eddie Barnes, the Scotsman

A NEW campaign will give Scottish voters the chance to have their say on the controversial EU constitutional treaty, in a bid to embarrass Labour ministers over their decision to back away from a referendum.

Up to half a million voters across the UK in 10 seats will be offered the chance to vote in the campaign, organised by the pressure group 'I Want A Referendum', who say they will pay to hold private referendums across the country.

The first is to take place next month in the south constituency of , chosen because the serving MP is Europe Minister Jim Murphy.

The campaign has raised thousands of pounds to pay for the referendums which will see all voters asked two questions – first whether the UK should hold a national referendum and secondly whether the Government should adopt the EU treaty.

Richard Cook, founder of East Renfrewshire EU Choice and Conservative Westminster candidate for , said: "For so many local people the denial of the referendum they were promised by the Government on this issue is simply a matter of trust."

Labour MP Gisela Stuart said: "We made a very clear promise of a referendum at the last election. These referendums will give people the chance to have the vote which the Government is trying to take away from them. Gordon Brown must listen."