Pride in the European Union

Liberal Democrats in Gloucester will be taking their campaign to remain in the European Union to Gloucester Pride on Saturday when party members will be handing out cards encouraging everyone to support having a People's Vote on the final Brexit deal.

This campaign will proceed a major debate at the county council when councillors will be encouraged to support a Lib Dem motion calling for a People's Vote on the Brexit deal.

In proposing a new referendum Liberal Democrats will want there to be a option to remain in the European Union.

Councillor Jeremy Hilton, who will speak in the debate, said: "Gloucester may have voted leave in 2016, but I imagine many people are now having second thoughts.

"The Government's handling of the Brexit negotiations is lamentable. Leave lied to the public. Boris Johnson has quit just as David Davies did before him.

"I will be urging all county councillors to back the Lib Dem call for a people's vote on the final Brexit deal.

"It is imperative that the people of Gloucester and the United Kingdom have the final say on whether to proceed with Brexit or to remain members of the European Union.

"Leaving the EU will mean the loss of citizenship rights we now all enjoy. Currently we are able to work, study, live and retire anywhere in the EU.

"Our European Health Insurance Card provides health cover across all member states.

"These are benefits that are important to everyone, but especially so for the younger generation who are starting out on their adult lives.

"We must also consider the negative impact that leaving the EU will have on many local businesses that trade within the Single Market."

Dr Rebecca Trimnell, Gloucester's Lib Dem Parliamentary spokeswoman, said: "I voted Remain in 2016 and I still believe that the UK should retain its full membership of the European Union.

"The evidence from the chaotic negotiations suggests that the best option is the status quo. It is also best option for Gloucester.

"I have spoken to many people who are worried about their own future, not only UK citizens but those EU nationals who live and work in the city.

"We cannot leave it to this incompetent government to make the decision on the final Brexit deal. The public must decide in a People's Vote."