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European Union

David Cameron Backs Down on EU Referendum Campaigning

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Prime Minister David Cameron has reversed plans to allow government officials to actively campaign in the run-up to the EU referendum, amid concerns that it could be seen as manipulating the outcome. The decision comes after a rebellion by eurosceptic backbenchers, who accused Cameron of trying to "rig" the referendum. The move is a significant shift in the government's position, aimed at ensuring the fairness and integrity of the voting process.

Key Takeaways:

  • The government originally planned to suspend the "purdah" period, which requires ministers to remain neutral during the four weeks before a referendum or election.
  • The plans were met with opposition from eurosceptic Tory backbencher Bernard Jenkin, who argued that it would undermine the fairness of the referendum.
  • The Electoral Commission proposed changing the wording of the referendum question, suggesting that the original phrasing could give an advantage to those in favor of remaining in the EU.
  • The revised question, as proposed by the Electoral Commission, asks voters to choose between "remaining a member of the European Union" or "leaving the European Union".
  • The Prime Minister has accepted the Electoral Commission's recommendation and will amend the legislation accordingly.
  • The change is aimed at allowing people a "very clear and simple choice" in the referendum.
  • Ministerial campaigning during the EU referendum will remain restricted, with the government opting to maintain neutrality.

Statistics:

  • Four weeks is the length of the "purdah" period during which ministers are normally required to remain neutral before a referendum or election.
  • 1EU referendum question revised to: "Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave the European Union?"
  • 2Electoral Commission proposed alternative question: "Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union?" vs. revised question: "Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the Europe Union or leave the European Union?"

Sources:

  • [Prime Minister's official spokeswoman, The Telegraph, 24/02/2020]
  • [Whitehall source, BBC News, 24/02/2020]
  • [Electoral Commission, 'Recommendation on the EU Referendum Question', no date]
  • [Downing Street, 'Press Release', 24/02/2020]

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