UKIP Leader Calls for Britain to Leave the European Union, Citing Damage to Fishing and Farming Industries

Strategic Insights -

At the opening of their conference in Solihull, UKIP leader Michael Holmes emphasized the need for Britain to quit the European Union, citing the devastating impact of EU policies on its fishing and farming industries. He noted that the industries have been "badly damaged" over the past 25 years and argued that leaving the EU would allow Britain to regain control over these vital sectors.

Key Takeaways:

  • UKIP leader Michael Holmes cited the impact of EU policies on Britain's fishing and farming industries as a key reason for the country to leave the EU.
  • Holmes argued that fears of isolation used by other parties to justify staying in the EU are unfounded, pointing to trade opportunities with North America and other countries.
  • He stated that Britain would not be shunned by its European neighbors, as the EU cannot afford to cut off trade links with the country.
  • Holmes accused the Labour Party of being afraid to ask electors about Europe and claimed that the party is "frightened they will vote to leave the EU."
  • The UKIP plans to strengthen the party and attract more members, aiming to have over 400 candidates standing in the next General Election.
  • Holmes emphasized the potential for the UKIP to win seats from the Liberal Democrats in the South-west and save deposits in the next election.

Statistics:

  • 25 years: The amount of time that the UK's fishing and farming industries have been "badly damaged" by EU policies.
  • 100 candidates: The number of UKIP candidates that stood in the 1992 election.
  • 400 candidates: The number of UKIP candidates that the party aims to field in the next General Election.
  • 1992: The year of the last UK General Election in which the UKIP fielded 100 candidates.
  • South-west: The area where the UKIP is hoping to win seats from the Liberal Democrats.
  • Deposits: The number of deposits that the UKIP is hoping to save in the next election.

Sources:

  • UK Independence Party (UKIP) conference speech by Michael Holmes (exact quote not available)
  • The Birmingham Post, Wednesday, October 18, 1995 (referenced by the UKIP conference speech, exact quote not available)