Nothing could better illustrate the make-it-up-as-you-go-along nature of Cameron’s renegotiation than this gap in the Queen’s Speech today.
They repeatedly implied they could back Brexit if the renegotiation was rejected – but now we are supposed to believe it would be a disaster.
A reported conversation that throws light on the Prime Minister’s claim that his renegotiation has achieved real EU reform for Britain.
Which also means putting the Five Presidents’ Report front of stage.
A large part of the reason for the Chancellor backing off is the interplay between the EU referendum and Tory MPs’ views.
As the Association AGM season looms, the former Defence Secretary issues a reminder of a key manifesto commitment from last May.
“The UK is fighting for its citizens and rights. If every country was doing that it wouldn’t be possible to negotiate anything!”
Plus: Cameron is formidable. How does Boris get away with it? And: the BBC’s disgraceful sacking of Tony Blackburn as cover for its mistakes over Savile.
Ireland is one of the EU’s most popular members – and one of the most keenly opposed to Brexit.
In the 1975 referendum, the press campaigned for, and got, a yes vote. What will its influence be this time?
It was an affront to democracy when Brown signed the Treaty, giving away powers without a referendum. Now we have the chance to take back control.
Cameron has been in his element in recent days, but the manoeuvering in Brussels has highlighted the risks of remaining.
While the tally of Leave MPs has risen sharply since the draft renegotiation was presented, the debate didn’t reflect the increase.
Part One of a ConHome series on how the Prime Minister’s aim of a reformed Europe, claimed by him as the basis for a Remain vote, was not achieved by his renegotiation.