Standing up for democracy

FROM all corners of Britain they came in their hundreds yesterday. United by a common cause that has the backing of most of Britain, protesters calling for a referendum on Europe took their fight to the Houses of Parliament. Most were armed with placards demanding elected politicians heed the nationwide calls for a public vote on leaving the EU. Many held up posters featuring the Daily Express crusade to get Britain out of Europe. The throngs, under the purple and yellow banners of UKIP, gathered ahead of last night’s parliamentary vote before they lobbied their MPs to listen to their conscience rather than party leaders. Angered by the mainstream parties’ decision to try to force MPs to vote against a referendum on the EU by imposing a three line whip, many felt their stand yesterday was part of a fundamental fight for UK democracy. Protesters as young as 15 united with pensioners. At lunchtime an orderly march snaked round Parliament Square after UKIP leader Nigel Farage was greeted with cheers. Placards bearing names of towns across the UK – from Lewes to Sheffield and Tunbridge Wells to Sunderland – all declared the same: “Give Us Our Referendum Now”. Mr Farage warned the UK would only be dragged deeper into the eurozone crisis if we stayed in the EU. He said: “It is time for us to leave and start heading in the right direction.The cost of staying is going to come to billions. But this is about more than just EU membership – mainstream politicians are refusing to allow a proper national debate.” Oliver Neville, a 20-year-old York University student, said: “The Government are conspiring to stop the people having a say.” Victor Webb, 67, who still works as a cost lawyer, said: “The parties are trying to pretend there is still a debate going but there is not. It is always the right time to get out of Europe. If we stay in, we will infected by the euro crisis.” His fears were echoed by 79-year-old retired metal broker Sir George Earle, who travelled from Devon. He said: “The MPs are denying people democracy. I know the vote will be lost but this is one of the most important issues.