Herron seeks poll promise

May 25 2005
By Zoe Hughes Political Editor, The Journal

A North-East campaigner last night demanded a referendum on the European constitution, even if other EU nations say no to the plans.

Neil Herron of Sunderland is preparing to launch his own People's No campaign today but says Cabinet ministers must keep their promise to hold a vote on the treaty amid growing speculation that it could be ditched.

Polls for the vote in France indicate that the no campaign could win on Sunday, with fears mounting that the constitution would be left dead in the water without the participation of one of its founding member states.

Unveiling legislation which will pave the way for the Government's own referendum, Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said there would be a vote as long as there was something to vote on.

But Mr Herron has demanded a firm commitment from ministers. "Regardless of the result in France, this debate has to be held," he said.

"We want a serious grown-up debate that is free from party politics - our campaign will obviously deliver the people's perspective."

He is set to launch the a grassroots No campaign in London today, adding: "Quite simply, our argument is that we are not prepared to surrender further powers to the European Union."

Durham North West MP and Chief Whip Hilary Armstrong who said it was important to have a Europe that "recognises and respects the nation state but also brings together people to avoid wars in the future."

France is expected to say no to the plans on Sunday. The Netherlands, which is expected to say yes, will vote on June 1.