Tories have “clear mandate” on Europe
The Tories now look set to make Europe a dominant issue of this parliament. They are keen to strike what they call a “better deal” for the UK and if they can’t get one, they will leave. London Mayor Boris Johnson, a contender to take over from David Cameron, has said that he believes a British exit from the E.U. is a viable alternative if they don’t get what they want in negotiations. Cameron has promised a referendum on the matter in 2017.
Osborne claims he is determined to strike a deal with the EU and to quash any potential backbench revolt. He said “We come here with a very clear mandate to improve Britain's relationship with the rest of the European Union and to reform the European Union so that it creates jobs and increases living standards for all its citizens…I don't think anyone's now in any doubt we will hold that referendum on British membership of the EU having conducted these negotiations.”
The future of Britain’s membership of the European Union is as uncertain as the future of the United Kingdom. A strong result for the SNP in Scotland has put Scottish independence back on the agenda. But Leader Nicola Sturgeon has insisted that she is governing for the whole of Scotland, including those who voted no. But she didn't rule out a referendum if Britain were to leave the E.U. but Scotland voted to remain a part of it.
Osborne is determined to show that he wants reform not an exit. He said "we go into the negotiations aiming to be constructive and engaged but also resolute and firm and no-one should underestimate our determination to succeed for the working people of Britain and the working people of the whole of the European Union."
LM/HA
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