Hi °C | Lo °C In Write Back (December 8), it was stated that no DUP MP was present in the House of Commons during a debate on Europe.
The fact is that I actually intervened in that debate to take both the Labour Government and the Conservative opposition to task for their betrayal of the electorate in denying the people of the UK a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty.
I stated that people would feel cheated by being left with no say on fundamental changes in our relationship with the EU.
Labour said they would allow a vote on this new European constitution, but reneged.
Conservatives gave a "cast iron guarantee" of a referendum, but also reneged.
Both have done so in order to paper over the wide cracks in their own parties over Europe and for selfish and cynical party political purposes.
While both these parties conspire to prevent a vote on this vital issue, I am using the opportunity given to me through winning a place to bring forward a Private Members' Bill, to introduce legislation providing for just such a referendum.
Even if the Bill is not successful, it provides MPs of all parties to state clearly where they stand on an issue of vital constitutional importance.
I urge all true democrats, whatever their views on Europe, to support me in this endeavour.
NIGEL DODDS MP MLA
House of Commons
