Fury as Vince Cable suggests Lib Dems will block EU referendum

VINCE CABLE sparked anger last night by signalling the Lib Dems could block plans for an in-out EU referendum.

Vince CableGETTY

Vince Cable suggested Lib Dems would oppose the referendum

The Lib Dem Business Secretary claimed his party was “not entertaining the idea” of allowing the first national vote on Britain’s relationship with Brussels since 1975.

And he warned the poll could turn into a “never-endum” of endless uncertainty over the country’s future.

His remarks suggest a split is developing over Europe in the Lib Dem ranks.

By contrast, party leader Nick Clegg has left the door open to a referendum on the European Union in the hope of using the issue as a bargaining point in a possible parliamentary deal with the Tories after the election.

We have a very strong position and do not think a referendum would settle anything

Vince Cable

In a newspaper interview, Mr Cable said the Lib Dems were opposed to a referendum unless there are significant changes in the EU’s founding treaties.

Asked if the position could shift in coalition negotiations, he said: “No.

"We are not talking about red lines.

"But we have a very strong position and do not think a referendum at this time would settle anything.”

Tory MP Andrew Griffiths said: “Once again, Vince Cable has proved he doesn’t trust the British people and wants to deny them a say on our future in Europe.” 

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