The divisive debate over Britain’s future relationship with the European Union gathered pace yesterday with big names intervening on both sides of the argument.
Former chancellor Nigel Lawson announced he will lead a Conservative Brexit campaign, while Danny Alexander – part of the In camp – highlight why EU membership matters to the north of Scotland.
Mr Alexander stressed the economic benefits of remaining part of a united single market.
The UK’s ability to fight climate change, tackle international crime, and win good trade deals with other parts of the world are also strengthened by membership, he said.
His comments came as eurosceptic peer Lord Lawson revealed he has taken on the role of president of the Conservatives for Britain and will front a cross-party exit movement in the run-up to the EU referendum, due to take place by 2017.
He said he believed it was “highly unlikely” David Cameron would secure any significant reforms and insisted it was time for the prime minister to set out red lines.
But he flatly refused to share a platform with the Leave.EU campaign, backed by Ukip donor Arron Banks.
He said: “We welcome others to come and support us. We are not going to support anybody else, but we are open to all sorts of others from all parties and none to come and rally to the Conservatives for Britain group.”
Mr Banks retaliated in a joint statement with Richard Tice and Jim Mellon, key figures in Leave.EU, which branded Lord Lawson a “has been”.
Ukip leader Nigel Farage said the Out campaign would not succeed without his party, adding that the referendum would not be won in Westminster, but “out across the country”.