Give South West people a say

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 22nd Jun 2004

A Liberal Democrat MEP is calling on Tony Blair to set an early date for the referendum on the new EU constitution.

South West Euro-MP Graham Watson says that the Prime Minister should not delay giving voters a choice on the issue.

He commented: "Instead of being the last member state to hold a referendum, Britain should set the pace in Europe and be among the first. The case for a 'yes' vote is clear enough, and Mr Blair should ensure that ministers engage themselves fully on winning the argument.

"The UK Parliament and the European Parliament must express their views on the agreement, and a plebiscite should be held at the first opportunity thereafter."

Supporters of the constitution claim that prevarication by the government may play into the hands of their opponents.

Graham Watson fears that a 'yes' vote campaign will be undermined by government attempts to keep the issue off the political agenda until after a general election.

He said: "We know there is an uphill battle against a eurosceptic press, but the struggle will become harder with every month that the government avoids a fight.

"The constitution provides the basis for long overdue reforms that will help open up EU decision-making, increase the role of national parliaments, and give Europe a more effective voice on a world stage now dominated by George W. Bush."

"If South West Residents are given the full facts I am confident that they will give it their support, but the case must be made strongly now."