Press releases

01/04/08

Lib Dems block referendum in Lords

I Want a Referendum today responded to the news that the Liberal Democrats will vote against a referendum in the Lords.

IWR Director Neil O'Brien said:

"The Liberal Democrats promised a referendum at the election, abstained in the Commons, and are now against a referendum in the Lords. The Lib Dems have behaved in a deeply hypocritical and dishonest way, saying one thing and doing another."

"This is a humiliation for Nick Clegg. He has been unable to make his own peers follow his policy. This is very damaging for the Liberal Democrats' credibility. Nick Clegg is now being pushed around by his own party, rather than leading it. It makes him look like a very weak leader."

"In the Commons, Lib Dem front benchers had to resign to vote for a referendum. But the Lib Dems in the Lords will not be punished, because they have forced their own leader to back down. This is a humiliation for Nick Clegg."

Notes for Editors

1) After refusing to answer the question several times during today's second reading debate, Lord McNally eventually confirmed: "no, we will not abstain on a referendum."

2) For more information please contact Neil O'Brien on 0207 197 2333 or 07973 142775.