22 June 2016
Tomorrow, we will go to the polls to make a crucial decision on whether the UK should remain in the European Union. As Economic Secretary to the Treasury and MP for West Worcestershire I have campaigned up and down the country and the constituency to make the case that our economy is stronger, we are safer and our families are better off if we Remain in the EU. The vote is a decision not just for ourselves but also for the next generation. Our children and grandchildren will have to live with what we decide for their whole lives. And it is a decision that is irreversible. My generation has benefited enormously from our membership of the EU. We've been able to live, work and study across the EU. The UK has attracted inward investment from across the world, creating millions of jobs. During 40 years of membership, we've secured the best of both worlds, with the benefit of the Single Market of 500 million customers, without having to adopt the euro. As MP for West Worcestershire I dedicate myself to pursuing prosperity and opportunity for the 100,000 people who live in the constituency. Since I was elected, unemployment has fallen sharply, employment is at a record high, we're spending a record amount on our local NHS, investing in our schools, our broadband connections and our infrastructure. These investments are paid for by our tax contributions, which are higher when our economy is stronger, when more people are working and when businesses invest here. We also need to remain to have a democratic voice in making the rules that affect our country and to enhance our sovereignty abroad, as we do with our membership of NATO, the EU and the UN. The Leave campaign has no plan for how we'll maintain trade links, inward investment and that all important access to the Single Market. Their Australian points-based system for immigration would likely lead to higher immigration and what would happen to the 1.2 million British residents in other EU countries? Voting is tomorrow, June 23rd. You don't need your poll card to vote and you can take your postal vote to the polling station is you've forgotten to post it. We will be stronger, safer, and better off remaining in the EU. Don't risk a leap in the dark. Make sure that you have your say and join me in voting to remain in the European Union tomorrow, June 23. Harriett Baldwin MP for West Worcestershire