The Lib Dem Conference: A Call to Address Europe
By Alix Culbertson, Political Reporter, at the Lib Dem Conference in Brighton
The Liberal Democrats (Lib Dems) have gathered in Brighton for their annual conference, where discussions are heating up around a topic that has become increasingly contentious in British politics: Europe. Among the prominent voices at the conference is Richard Foord, the MP for Honiton and Sidmouth, who has taken a bold stance on the Labour Party’s reluctance to engage in discussions about the European Union (EU).
Labour’s Reluctance to Discuss Europe
During a lively event at the conference, Foord expressed his concerns about Labour’s apparent avoidance of European issues. He stated, "Labour is desperate not to talk about Europe," highlighting a significant political strategy that he believes could have repercussions in the next parliamentary session. Foord pointed out that Reform UK, a right-wing political party, came second in 89 of the 411 seats that Labour won in the last election. This statistic underscores the potential electoral threat that discussions about Europe pose to Labour, as they navigate a complex political landscape shaped by Brexit.
Foord recounted a recent interaction with a Labour MP who was vying for the position of chair of Parliament’s cross-party business and trade committee. When he inquired about the single market, the Labour MP reportedly refused to engage in the conversation. This incident, according to Foord, exemplifies Labour’s fear of addressing European matters, which he believes will be a crucial issue for the Lib Dems to champion in the next parliament.
The Struggle in the House of Lords
The challenges of discussing Europe are not limited to the House of Commons. Lib Dem peer Sal Brinton also shared her experiences in the House of Lords, where she faces significant opposition from pro-Brexit Tory-appointed peers. "In the House of Lords, there are a number of very strong Brexit Tory-appointed peers who are still espousing it, so our debates are quite extraordinary to watch," Brinton remarked.
Her observations highlight the stark divide within the upper chamber of Parliament, where debates on European issues can become heated and contentious. Brinton noted that while the Lib Dems and several cross-benchers—many of whom are former ambassadors and civil servants—are advocating for a renewed relationship with the EU, they often encounter fierce resistance from Brexit supporters. This dynamic creates a challenging environment for constructive dialogue on Europe.
The Need for External Campaigning
Given the difficulties faced in parliamentary discussions, Brinton believes that the key to advancing the conversation about Europe lies outside the confines of Parliament. She emphasized the importance of grassroots campaigning and public engagement to shift the narrative surrounding the EU. "I believe campaigning outside parliament is the way to get anything done on Europe," she asserted, suggesting that mobilizing public opinion could pressure lawmakers to reconsider their stances on European issues.
This call to action reflects a broader strategy within the Lib Dems to re-establish their identity as a pro-European party, particularly in light of the ongoing debates surrounding Brexit and its implications for the UK’s relationship with Europe. By focusing on external advocacy, the Lib Dems aim to create a groundswell of support that could influence parliamentary discussions and ultimately lead to a more constructive approach to Europe.
Conclusion
As the Lib Dem conference unfolds, it is clear that the party is positioning itself as a key player in the ongoing discourse about Europe. With voices like Richard Foord and Sal Brinton leading the charge, the Lib Dems are determined to challenge the prevailing narratives and advocate for a more open and constructive relationship with the EU. As they prepare for the next parliamentary session, their commitment to addressing European issues could play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape in the UK. The conference in Brighton serves not only as a platform for discussion but also as a rallying point for the party’s future endeavors in the realm of European politics.