Vote Liberal Democrat in the European Elections on June 4th

• Introduction
• Jobs
• The EU
• Crime
• Environment
• Defence and world trade

Britain can no longer pretend that we can solve the problems of the world or keep this country safe by acting alone or just supporting whatever the United States decides. If we are to maintain influence in the world we must co-operate with our European partners to pursue shared objectives and values. Those countries which form part of a larger group will be better able to defend and promote their interests.

Europe acting together will be a credible ally and partner for Barack Obama’s United States. As well as military co-operation this will also mean working together to guarantee democracy, poverty reduction and sustainable development in other parts of the world.

The unquestioning support by Labour and the Conservatives for President Bush and the invasion of Iraq left Britain isolated and without having much say over what was decided in Washington. By turning its back on Europe, the Conservatives would speed up the relative decline in British power.

Liberal Democrats believe that working together with other countries through international bodies such as the UN, NATO and the EU is the best way to ensure Britain’s security.

Liberal Democrats say:

• No to a European army, but yes to European Defence Co-operation to boost military capabilities and enhance the European contribution to NATO. Liberal Democrats believe that NATO remains the bedrock of our collective security and do not believe in the need for a European army. Britain should retain its veto defence decisions including over the deployment of British troops.
   
• Support EU Enlargement to help spread democracy, human rights and prosperity through the continent of Europe.
   
• Free and Fair World Trade. Liberal Democrats want the EU to promote a world trading system that is both free and fair. That means a liberal and open system that increases growth and jobs, but that takes account of environmental and social standards too. The EU has a key role to play in salvaging the Doha development round of the World Trade Organisation, including eliminating production subsidies in agriculture and trade barriers.

More detail

There is more information on Liberal Democrat policies on defence and world trade in our full manifesto.