Caroline has responded to David Cameron's ongoing negotiations over Britain's place in the EU.

If Mr Cameron can get an agreement on the draft deal with his fellow European leaders at the February European Council summit, he is expected to hold a referendum in June on whether Britain should remain in the EU.

She said:

“It’s welcome that these protracted discussions seem to be drawing to a close and we can start talking about the bigger issues at the core of the EU referendum debate.

“Though I’m strongly opposed to Cameron’s desire to water down EU regulations, it’s clear that the vast majority of the protections we enjoy because of the EU will remain.

“Ultimately Britain is better off in Europe. Being in the EU creates jobs, protects our environment and allows us to work with our neighbours on the huge cross-border challenges we share. Indeed it’s heartening that only today MEPs voted to back a biodiversity strategy that reinforces the EU’s central role defending wildlife and nature in the UK.[1]

“Even if we left the EU, we’d be deeply affected by the decisions made in Brussels. By remaining a member we have the opportunity to have our say and make the EU more democratic and accountable to people here in Britain.”

Caroline once again railed against Cameron’s proposals to limit in-work benefits to EU citizens working in the UK. She said:

“Taking away in-work benefits for EU citizens working in the UK is both unfair and unlikely to be effective. People who come here from other EU countries pay more in tax than they take out in public services. You won’t hear it from Government Ministers but the fact is that EU nationals are actually less likely to claim benefits than British people.

“Even in their watered down form, Cameron’s proposals will penalise those who contribute hugely to our society. Furthermore, cutting tax credits for EU Nationals will likely fail even on its own terms - given that the Government hasn't produced evidence to suggest that tax credits are a major draw for EU nationals who come to live here.”

ENDS

[1] https://twitter.com/Natures_Voice/status/694490338011025408

Caroline Lucas is available for interview. Contact: Matthew Butcher on 07885 459 904 or clucasmedia@parliament.uk