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Wednesday 10 February 2016

Tim Farron launches Lib Dem referendum campaign it's "time to lead, not leave"

In a speech launching the Liberal Democrat campaign to keep the United Kingdom within the European Union today, party leader, Tim Farron said of Mr Cameron's renegotiation that "I've been asked many times to herald David Cameron’s renegotiation with great praise and say it’s going to solve all of our problems, and others want me to blast it by saying what I don’t agree with or that it’s a complete waste of time."

Mr Farron said Tory divisions were the only reason David Cameron had chosen this course of action: "Let’s be frank. We know the only reason he’s doing it is because of his back benchers – but despite all of that, it does prove is that when you need something you have to work together."

Mr Farron emphasised what he sees as the benefits to the United Kingdom and the European Union remaining together, Tim Farron said: "After decades of brutal conflict, European nations came together in cooperation. To this day, neighbours and allies support each other in what remains the world’s most successful project in peace. Together we created the world’s largest free trade area, we delivered peace, and we gave the British people the opportunity to live, work and travel freely. Together we are stronger in the fight against the global problems that don’t stop at borders."

Tim Farron didn't deny that he believes the EU needs reform, pointing out that he thinks: "Europe is not perfect. Westminster is not perfect. But picking up your ball in a sulk and heading home, is not the way to win. We should be a leading voice to make changes. Remaining in a reformed Europe. This is Britain’s time to lead the way."

Like with his party conference speech Mr Farron was most passionate in defence of refugees in the European Union at the moment, Tim Farron in a clear swipe at UKIP said: "Earlier this week we had a taste of how the nastier side of the referendum may go. Using refugees – people who are desperate and fleeing conflict – for political points is disgusting."

Turning his fire onto David Cameron, Tim Farron said: "The Prime Minister has shown himself to be weak, and heartless. And this campaign needs the opposite. This campaign needs strength and compassion. The leave campaign will play nasty, and it seems people on our own side will engage in a nasty race to the bottom on immigration, migration and refugees." In a more reassuring tone to his party supporters "But Liberal Democrats, I will not stand for it." and in a direct appeal to the Prime Minister, Tim Farron said: "David Cameron: there are children in Europe who need our help."

Turning to Labour, whos leader Jeremy Corbyn, who are likely to be infavour of the United Kingdom remaining. Mr Farron recalled when the 'pro-AV' Ed Miliband became Labour leader: "I remember AV. A newly appointed left wing Labour leader refused to fully back the campaign." 

Appealing to Mr Corbyn for support in the remain campaign Tim Farron will say: "Jeremy Corbyn, do not let your own internal party chaos derail such an important vote. I know you may have wanted to leave in the past, but now is the time to step up." Calling for the 3 main, UK, party leaders to campaign together Mr Farron said: "We can all put party interests aside for the good of our country. You, Me and Dave. We all back the campaign, so let’s just get on and do it."

Attaching those who claim its 'patriotism' to support one of the number of leave campaigns Mr Farron said: "And one final thing that I must get off my chest. People who want to leave do not own our flag. Patriots love our country. Nationalists hate their neighbours. It is the British spirit that helped bring everyone together. We must not let people pretend that it is the British spirit that tears people apart."

In conclusion Tim Farron told his party that; "we are a proud nation that stands tall in the world. We are a beacon of hope, freedom, prosperity, ingenuity, creativity. We must remain as a leader on the world stage. This is Britain’s time to lead, not leave."