THE Labour Party is an International Party.

That is why I am voting to stay in the European Union. The EU is less than perfect.

It is a less-than-perfect world.

The issue separates members of political parties, families and friends. So it’s all down to how we feel about belonging to the EU?

For me, the issues are these.

Do we wish to work together with 27 other countries to secure the future of our country, to protect our economy, to fight terrorism, to work for social justice, defend trade unions, to help individuals reach their potential and defend democracy?

I do not want “ever closer union”

or for the UK to be part of the Euro Monetary Union.

There are never going to be complete answers to satisfy doubters or those for leaving.

Yes, the refugee/migrant issue is very acute and divisive, it effects all European nations. It requires a European answer.

Clearly, the UK and all other European countries will have to decide on numbers of refugees/ migrants.

We are not members of the Schengen agreement.

Therefore, we are able to refuse entry.

To conclude, the people of Wyre Forest will have to decide “Yes” or “No” based on how they feel about our future being in.

The Labour Party will campaign and vote to stay in the European Union, as will the Prime Minister and many of the Conservative Party, the Liberal Democrats and the Scottish National Party. Can we all be wrong?

Nigel Knowles – Labour Councillor for Habberley and Franche Leader of the Labour Group – WFDC (in a personal capacity)