Southwark backs Lib Dem motion putting borough firmly behind rejoining the EU

Southwark Liberal Democrats passed a motion to yesterday’s Council Assembly calling for closer ties with the European Union, with the eventual aim of the UK rejoining as a full member. The motion was passed with no councillors voting against. 

The motion, proposed by Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader of the Council Cllr Victor Chamberlain, sets out in detail the benefits the EU has brought to Southwark and London, and commits the council to campaigning for closer economic, educational, scientific and cultural cooperation with Europe. 

It notes that Southwark voted overwhelmingly to remain in the EU in 2016, with 72.3% backing Remain, and that around 41,000 non-Irish EU citizens live in the borough. The motion highlights the vital role played by European staff in local services, including at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, and the contribution of EU funding – including from the European Investment Bank – to major transport projects such as the Elizabeth Line. 

This comes after Sir Ed Davey, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, announced at the party’s annual conference that – if in government – he would use the growth generated by a closer relationship with Europe to raise the annual tax-free personal allowance to £15,000. He also said he would raise the 40p income tax threshold from £50,270 to £56,000. The move would save most taxpayers around £680 a year. 

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader of Southwark Council, Cllr Victor Chamberlain said:  

“This motion sends a clear message from Southwark: our borough's success has always been built on openness, international talent and close ties with our European neighbours. Ten years on from the referendum, Brexit has proven to be a disaster, while businesses, universities, and public services continue to pay the price. 

Liberal Democrats are showing another path is possible: a closer relationship with Europe would be worth billions each year, allowing us to tackle the cost of living crisis and put that money back into people’s pockets. It's time to rebuild our relationship with Europe, and I'm proud that Southwark is leading the way.”