An early election? (Andrew Duff MEP)

Andrew Duff MEP <info@andrewduffmep.org.uk>

An early election?

September 1, 2007 10:00 AM
By Andrew Duff MEP in North Bedfordshire Observer

There has been much muttering about the possibility of a (very) early general election, with a referendum on the European Union's new treaty thrown in. Both, in my view, would be ridiculous. All other things being equal, Labour's large majority in the House of Commons could safely sustain Gordon Brown as prime minister until June 2010. An election now would be an opportunistic distraction from the difficult tasks he faces in combating violent crime, improving the country's health service, and in withdrawing our troops from Iraq.

As far as Europe is concerned, I represent the European Parliament in the negotiations on the new constitutional treaty. I can assure anyone who cares to listen that the changes proposed are good. They will improve the efficiency of the EU and the effectiveness of common policy. They will strengthen Europe's role in the world. Our rights as European citizens will be amply secured. With the Reform Treaty in place, the EU will be ready to face the challenges of the 21st century.

What the new treaty will not do is to change the way Britain is governed. Our domestic constitution, warts and all, will survive intact. The UK will get more out of a European Union that works better - and it will have to put more effort into making our membership a true success. That means a long campaign in this country, uniting progressive pro-Europeans from all parties and none, to encourage public opinion to be more confident of Britain's place in Europe and the wider world.

Plebiscites may be fine for revolutionary circumstances, but these are not they. A panicky referendum campaign on the lengthy and complex package deal enshrined in the new treaty would only serve to sow more confusion, division and frustration about Britain's European future.

Instead, Mr Brown's government should shoulder responsibility in Parliament for the treaty he will sign. He will have the backing of the Liberal Democrats if he does.