Hampshire MP sparks protest over EU referendum

6.05.07pm GMT Tue 26th Feb 2008

Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne was one of the Liberal Democrat MPs to protest that the Speaker would not allow a vote on a full referendum today in the House of Commons.

Mr Huhne protested that the Speaker had not allowed a vote on the Liberal Democrat amendment for a referendum on whether we should be in our out of the European Union.

The Clerks of the House had approved the amendment, but the Speaker decided that the Tory amendment would be the only one subjected to a vote.

"This is a key issue where the British people should be given a say over our continued membership of the European Union after nearly thirty five years and several major changes in the relationship" said Mr Huhne.

"The Conservatives want a more limited vote because they know they would be split on whether we stay in or leave the EU. However, a full referendum is needed to clear the air and I look forward to making the case for our continued EU membership.

"The British people deserve a say" said Mr Huhne.