Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has today launched the Liberal Democrats’ 2014 European election campaign. The launch took place in Colchester at a rally with activists and supporters, followed by a public town hall-style Q&A session hosted by Heart FM.

The Liberal Democrats have also released their 2014 European election manifesto, entitled ‘In Europe, In Work’.

The manifesto sets out the Liberal Democrats’ priorities for the European Parliament, including measures to:

Create more jobs from trade within Europe
Help fight crime across Europe
Protect the environment and create green jobs
Reform the EU to cut waste, protect the UK’s influence in the Single Market and strengthen the role of the Westminster Parliament in scrutinising EU legislation
The manifesto is available to read online here:

http://www.libdems.org.uk/european_election_manifesto_2014

Nick Clegg said:

“On 22 May, your choice is simple: do you think Britain is better off in Europe or do you want us out of it? Will you back a party that will lead us towards the exit, or do you want your representatives to make sure Britain remains engaged with our neighbours – a leading nation in our European backyard?

“I want you to choose the Liberal Democrats because we are now Britain’s only party of IN. We want Britain to stay in Europe – because that is how we keep our country strong, prosperous, safe and green.

“As members of the European Union, our businesses have access to 500m European customers. Trade with other European countries supports millions of British jobs.

“As members of the European Union, Britain is part of a global economic superpower. We have far greater influence as part of a powerful, 28-member bloc.

“As members of the European Union our police can work with their counterparts abroad to crack down on the criminals who cross our borders. Collectively, our governments can be much bolder in the fight against climate change too.

“Over the coming weeks you will hear other parties blame all of Britain’s problems on Brussels. It’s certainly true that the EU’s institutions are not perfect – just as Westminster isn’t. But don’t be fooled: being in Europe is good for Britain. Leaving the EU is the surest way to trash our economic recovery.

“Pulling up the drawbridge would leave our nation isolated and diminished in the world. Now is the time to use your voice to protect Britain’s interests. On 22 May, vote for the Liberal Democrats.”

ENDS