Scots to get Euro poll denied by Labour

Published on Sunday 20 January 2008 00:26

A NEW campaign will give Scottish voters the chance to have their say on the controversial EU constitutional treaty, in a bid to embarrass Labour ministers over their decision to back away from a referendum.

Up to half a million voters across the UK in 10 seats will be offered the chance to vote in the campaign, organised by the pressure group 'I Want A Referendum', who say they will pay to hold private referendums across the country.

The first is to take place next month in the south Glasgow constituency of East Renfrewshire, chosen because the serving MP is Europe Minister Jim Murphy.

The campaign has raised thousands of pounds to pay for the referendums which will see all voters asked two questions – first whether the UK should hold a national referendum and secondly whether the Government should adopt the EU treaty.

Richard Cook, founder of East Renfrewshire EU Choice and Conservative Westminster candidate for East Renfrewshire, said: "For so many local people the denial of the referendum they were promised by the Government on this issue is simply a matter of trust."

Labour MP Gisela Stuart said: "We made a very clear promise of a referendum at the last election. These referendums will give people the chance to have the vote which the Government is trying to take away from them. Gordon Brown must listen."