It’s the size of a medium sized envelope. Its’ a combination of pictures and words. Its’ a got some Conservative MPs in a tizzy. The subject is a leaflet that puts the Government’s case for remaining in the EU. One arrived on my doorstep yesterday morning.
First reaction I had was; what’s all the fuss about this is rather modest. I expected something in dayglow pink, with loud headlines and grandiose claims. What I got was clear, concise and straightforward. The Government has every right to state its point of view. The Government believes the UK should remain in the EU. It would be irresponsible for them not to tell us, the voters, its reasoning.
Any kind of professional public communication costs money. The alternative is to be a secretive Government with no regard for accountability, openness and transparency. Yes, this current administration can be criticised on the issue of communication but not in this case. Starting a lengthy debate on the cost of the leaflet is a pure distraction.
If the campaigners to leave the EU are so concerned why is there no alternative text? It may be because there is no single policy position that can written down and agree between all the bickering Eurosceptic groups. For example; one group would want to whack-up tariffs and start a trade war with China and another group would run a mile before suggesting such action.
Britain is stronger, safer and better off in Europe. The messages are worth repeating. There are many reasons to REMAIN in the EU and this leaflet provides one selection.
John Vincent 