Britain Stronger in Europe
Britain Stronger in Europe is the official 'remain' campaign group promoting the benefits of continued membership of the European Union, in the run up to Britain's referendum on 23 June 2016. It was the only campaign group to apply to the Electoral Commission to act as flag bearer for the remain campaign.
The campaign's website summarises its position, arguing that:
- 'To vote to remain part of Europe is to vote for a stronger, better off, safer Britain that delivers opportunity for individuals and families, now and in the future. To vote to leave is to take a leap into the unknown, risking a weaker economy, the prospects of future generations and a loss of influence on the world stage.' [1]
It enjoys support from across the political spectrum, with backing from key figures in the Conservative Party and the Labour Party, as well as the former leader of the Green Party, and pro-EU groups such as European Movement, Open Europe and the Centre for European Reform.
Funding
Details of funding for the group remain formally undisclosed, but Goldman Sachs and Citi have confirmed they are donating six-figure sums. Lord Sainsbury is reportedly the biggest donor so far, and other big contributors include entrepeneurs Richard Branson and Richard Reed. [2]
Key backers
- Lord Stuart Rose - Chair
- Will Straw - Executive director
- Roland Rudd - Treasurer
- Lucy Thomas - Deputy director
- James McGrory - Chief spokesman
- Brendan Barber - Former TUC boss [2]
- David Cameron
- George Osbourne
- Jeremy Corbyn
- Alan Johnson
- Liberal Democrats
- Plaid Cymru
- Alliance Party
- SDLP (NI)
- Green Party [3]
Notes
- ↑ 'Why we're stronger in', Britain Stronger in Europe, accessed 9 May 2016
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 'The people hoping to persuade the UK to vote to stay in the EU', BBC News, 13 April 2016, accessed 9 May 2016
- ↑ Brian Wheeler, Alex Hunt 'The UK's EU Referendum: All you need to know', 12 May 2016, BBC News, accessed 13 May 2016
