MPs to debate UK’s departure from EU

The UK could leave the European Union following plans to debate the issue on Friday in the House of Commons.

Legislation which would revoke 1972’s European Communities Act is set to be discussed at a time when Britain’s relationship is already strained due to economic and social clashes. 

The proposal is being initiated in the Commons by Conservative MP Douglas Carswell who said it was “time to think seriously about the mechanism of withdrawal from the union.”

His private member’s bill would repeal the 1972 act and would also provide the opportunity to exit other European legislation.

The Clacton MP said: “I want people to think what would self-government feel like? For the first time since I have been alive, what if public policy was formulated by people accountable to voters? For all my life, not one has been able to change fishing or agricultural policy. When people start to ask that question I think we will probably begin to have a slightly more elevated discussion about our role in Europe.”

The debate arrives at a time when many politicians and the public alike are discussing whether Britain would be better off separating itself from the EU. Many Conservative MPs have spoken about the need for a referendum on the UK’s future relationship with Europe.

Prime Minister David Cameron is also fighting a battle with the EU over its spending plans, considering vetoing any inflation-busting increases in the long-term budget. On the social side of the debate, the Prime Minister has claimed he will go against the EU’s plans to allow prisoners to vote.

Downing Street has also dismissed another 6.8% rise in EU spending for next year which was touted by MEPs as “completely unacceptable”.

Mr Carswell, whose bill was chosen by the public through a vote on his website, suggested that a “sizeable chunk” of the Cabinet agreed on his views on Europe.

Alexander Clackson