LETTER: What a disappointment EU campaigns have been

I believe the ‘Remain’ camp has failed miserably and should have emphasised what we know are the actual advantages of being part of the EU. Surely these are more important than what MIGHT occur? These I believe should have been more emphasised:

EU business is worth £62bn- £78bn/year to the UK.

2.5 million jobs are linked directly to trade with the EU.

The UK has considerable worldwide influence by being a part of a powerful international institution.

The EU provides equal consumer protection and consumer rights for the British public throughout Europe.

The EU affords more protection from terrorists by sharing and co-ordinating information.

Holidays in Europe are easier and safer: British citizens have the right to receive emergency healthcare and the EU investigates ‘dangerous airlines’.

The EU legislates for increased workers rights, such as the minimum wage, working hours, four week’s paid holidays, sex discrimination and rights for part time and agency workers.

EU legislation protects wildlife habitats, halts the decline in endangered species, reduces/eliminates harmful chemicals, improves air quality, and takes action on climate change.

OK so some people might argue that the UK government would have brought in it’s own legislation anyway but the fact is that IT DIDN’T.

Also the UK receives various EU financial assistance:

Farmers receive between £2.5 and £3bn per year (55% of their income!).

UK economic development receives £3.8bn per year.

UK scientific research receives £1bn per year.

But what about the costs? The UK actually pays the EU £13bn per year and receives back £7.8bn in Grants. So the actual cost is £4.2bn per year ( or £65 per person per year) Note: the UK contributes £1bn per year via it’s EU payment to international aid. I personally believe the UK gets quite a good deal especially when you consider that we benefit to the tune of £62bn worth of trade.

Richard Olive,

Beauvale Gardens,

Gunthorpe,

Peterborough