Wrexham’s MP To ‘Vote & Campaign’ To Remain In EU

Wrexham MP Ian Lucas has said that he will vote and campaign for the UK to remain in the EU.

Over the weekend it was announced that the date for the Referendum on the UK’s membership in the European Union will take place on June 23rd.

Speaking after the announcement, Mr Lucas said that the benefits of the EU for his constituents meant he would be backing those campaigning to remain in Europe.

He said: “Wrexham and North East Wales’ economy benefits strongly from our links to Europe. We have major automotive and aerospace manufacturing companies and a strong supply chain sector, all of whom depend closely on the close links the EU offers. We also have many small companies which are exporters of goods, and they too gain from our EU membership.

“Our university benefits hugely from EU membership, making it much easier for two-way connections with mainland Europe and I was pleased to see that the Vice-Chancellor of Glyndwr supports EU membership strongly.

“Culturally, Wrexham has built up links with EU neighbours from football teams to choirs and we should not underestimate the long term impact this has on improving relationships with our allies. We should never forget that the last century was blighted by two world wars which started in mainland Europe and the EU has contributed to peace and stability in Western Europe since 1945.

“Finally, I think it is important for us to be outward looking – as a country and as individuals. Travel in Europe has been transformed since 1975 and it is easy to take for granted the benefits this brings – in leisure and work. No-one has any idea of the impact leaving the EU would have on freedom to live, work in and visit mainland Europe. Leaving the EU would, in my view, be a massive backward step.”

Last June Wrexham.com ran a quick ‘straw poll’ asking readers what their opinions of the EU were at the time. You can view the results here.