Allister deplores rejection of Referendum
06 March 2008
Statement by Traditional Unionist MEP Jim Allister:
"I very much regret the House of Commons decision to deny the voters of the UK the right to have their say on the Lisbon Treaty. This Constitutional Treaty will fundamentally alter our relationship with Europe, hugely enhance Brussels' powers and consequently greatly diminish national powers. In going back on its election pledge to allow the people to decide, the Brown Government has shown immense contenpt for the electorate and demonstrated craven cowardice. They know the voters of the UK would reject this further transfer of powers to Brussels and,shamefully, are railroading this unwanted Treaty through Parliament.
This was a vital vote on an issue of landmark constitutional importance. It behoved every MP who cares about democracy and British sovereignty to have been there to vote for a referendum. In view of conflicting suggestions, I seek public clarification as to whether the North Antrim MP turned up to vote on this vital occasion."
