Tory: renegotiate with EU
TORY MP George Eustice wants colleagues to support a renegotiation of Britain’s membership of the European Union, according to a proposed amendment circulated last night.
The amendment was widely seen as an attempt to water down next week’s parliamentary motion, which proposes an “in or out” referendum on whether or not the UK should remain a part of the EU.
The amendment would instead suggest that the government seeks to alter the terms of membership, and then offer a referendum on the new terms.
All three major Westminster parties are expected to order their MPs to vote against the current motion on Monday. Yet a rebellion among Conservative MPs could embarrass Prime Minister David Cameron.
“I believe we will see a record rebellion,” said Richmond Park and North Kingston MP Zac Goldsmith, one of 76 signatories to the motion.
“Membership of the EU is no longer a settled political decision,” added Conservative MP Douglas Carswell. “It is now acceptable to challenge it.”