LIB DEM leader Tim Farron’s pledge that the party “will fight the next election on a clear promise to restore Britain’s prosperity and role in the world, with the United Kingdom in the European Union” is welcomed by Brighton & Hove Liberal Democrats.
Liberal Democrats are committed to overturning Brexit through a fresh democratic mandate. If the next general election is held before Article 50 has been triggered, the party will pledge to keep the UK in the EU; and if Article 50 has already been triggered, it will seek for the UK to rejoin the EU.
Michael Wilbur, Chair of Brighton & Hove Lib Dems, said: “The European Union embodies the liberal values of working together, trade, openness, stewardship of the environment, freedom and mobility, opportunity, internationalism and individual rights. The Leave vote risks taking away the rights of everyone to live, work, study and retire in Europe. Worse still, it’s been seen by some as a declaration of an open season for racist intimidation. This is not our vision of Britain.
Nationally, Tim Farron has plainly set out the Liberal Democrats’ position to recommit the UK to the EU. We remain a clear beacon for a liberal Europe.
Locally, we were involved in a great, cross-party, positive campaign delivering a 74% turnout and 68.6% vote in favour of EU membership. We were fortunate to work together with Caroline Lucas MP and Peter Kyle MP, who both worked exceptionally hard and made strong and clear arguments for Remain, and a dedicated Britain Stronger in Europe team who drove activity across the city. We are committed to continue to work with other parties to fight for liberal, progressive values in Brighton and Hove.
Since the referendum result, the Liberal Democrats have gained 10,000 new members nationally and have seen a 27% increase in local party membership. The appetite to overturn Brexit is strong and we will fight to restore our identity as proud Europeans.”
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