Blair calls on Howard to “show leadership” on Europe
The Prime Minister has called on Michael Howard to “show leadership” on Europe rather than presenting the unrealistic policy of a renegotiation of existing treaties.
The two party leaders clashed at Prime Minister’s Question Time in the Commons after Mr Howard called for Tony Blair to reject the proposed European Constitution, which he claimed would transfer extensive powers to Brussels, including losing 20 of the country’s vetoes.
In the wake of the European election results, which saw a strong showing for Eurosceptic parties, the Conservatives are claiming that Mr Blair has no mandate to sign the UK up to a constitution.
Mr Blair is due to join the other EU leaders on Thursday for negotiations on the constitution.
Rounding on Mr Howard, the Prime Minister said it is “about time he showed a bit of proper leadership instead of running towards UKIP and shouting ‘me too’ he actually took on the argument”
He dismissed the Tory suggestion that they would renegotiate existing treaties saying that the reality is that every other member of the EU would have to agree to any change.
Mr Blair argued the “True choice is either in or out.”
He emphasised his belief that it is the UK’s interest to be “part of the largest economic market in the world”.
Reform, Mr Blair said, should come from within the EU and “We are best to form alliance with others to see change inside the European Union.”
The Prime Minister again reiterated his determination to ensure that the UK’s “red lines” on tax and foreign policy are maintained.
