The nationwide referendum on the UK’s membership of the European Union is on the horizon, and Exeter students are already getting to work on both sides of the table.
Students4Europe Exeter, a “non-partisan political society with the aim of getting as many people involved in the EU referendum”, is preparing to launch on Thursday 18th February, and boasts support from groups such as the Hungarian, Slovakian, and European societies, as well as the Liberal Democrat, Green Party, and Labour Party societies, whilst working in partnership with the national campaigns of Britain Stronger in Europe, Students For Europe, and Stronger In.
The launch event, which is scheduled to take place in Amory Moot, will include from the Conservative MP Neil Carmichael, the former President of the European Parliament’s Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe Party Sir Graham Watson, and Exeter’s local Labour MP Ben Bradshaw.
Speaking to Exeposé News, society President Georgia Drinkwater informed us that “this referendum could be the most important vote in our lives, and therefore anyone who wishes to learn more about the EU should join to fully understand what is at stake. It will be a fun informal evening where you can learn more about the issue and about how to get involved!”
Nonetheless, they shall not be unopposed in Forum Street; Vote Leave Exeter University was launched earlier this month, with an appearance from Brendan Chilton, the director of Labour Leave. On the 26th February, they will be hosting their second speaker; the Conservative MEP Daniel Hannan, in association with the University’s Conservative Association.
Thomas Collins, the President of UKIP Students and founder of the group, told News that they wished to “make the case for a more prosperous Britain. We have started to make the case for this through street stalls on campus and we will be continuing this in the coming months alongside bring in the campaign to the people in Exeter.“For anyone who is still in two minds on which way to vote when the referendum comes around, we have a top speaker lined up, and everyone is welcome to attend.”
With June 23rd being the likely date of the referendum, the next few months should prove to be especially exciting, as both societies attempt to win over the hearts and minds of Exeter students in order to ensure that Britain either remains within, or leaves, the European Union.
