I felt it necessary to comment on the Lisbon Treaty and the issue of a referendum which was passing through Parliament over the last few weeks. I have received correspondence from a number of constituents on the subject and thank you for getting touch.
I understand the points many of you have raised in favour of a referendum. I certainly also appreciate that this has been a divisive issue throughout the country and the constituency provoking a wide ranging debate. However it is the nature of politics, especially regarding such a contentious matter, that the position I take will inevitably lead to disappointment for some.
It is my own view that the Liberal Democrat proposal for an ‘in/out’ referendum on Europe would have posed a more important question for Britain’s overall approach and position within the European Union. Whereas a vote on the referendum would have left us facing the proposition of being in an enlarged EU without the necessary amendments adopted to streamline the organisations functions.
However I understand and respect that this is not a position with which all agree and for that I apologise. I am sorry to disappoint some with the decision I have taken but again this is unfortunately sometimes the nature of politics where difficult decisions must be made.
Mark Oaten