A REFERENDUM on the new EU constitution will give Britain a chance to drain poison from its system, poison for too long spread through the lies and distortions of the eurosceptics.
It will in effect be a referendum on whether Britain is to play its part in making the policies of the European Union, or withdraw to its status as George Bush's personal poodle.
The time is long overdue for eurosceptics to be forced to explain how Britain is going to shape the policies of a single market including nearly 500million people without being a full member of the EU.
They are going to have to tell us how to tackle the immense problems of the environment, of terrorism and organised crime, of immigration and asylum seekers, without developing common policies with our European partners
Glib answers will not suffice. The eurosceptics must present practical alternatives, and I look forward to playing my part in tearing them to shreds.
No political system is perfect. I want major changes made both in European policies and decision-making.
The constitution will help make it possible to achieve these reforms.
It is in every respect an improvement upon the existing situation. Let battle begin.
CHRIS DAVIES, Liberal Democrat MEP for the North West.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article