Lisa Nandy MP and Caroline will speak alongside Yanis Varoufakis later today at an event in Parliament launching a new project called ‘A Good Europe’. The two MPs, who are co-editing a book on progressive alliances set to be released later this year [1], are both campaigning for Britain to remain a member of the European Union. 'A Good Europe' will explore how the EU can meet the demands for social justice, democracy and sustainability.

The event in Parliament follows a packed public meeting at the London School of Economics yesterday evening.

Caroline said:

“The huge interest in these events clearly shows that people want to have a grown-up and serious discussion about the future of our country, and our relationship with the EU. It matters to every single one of us. That’s why it’s crucial that the debate is now wrested away from the men in grey suits shouting at each other and makes its way into our universities, our pubs, our community centres and our front rooms.

“All of us speaking at these events believe that Britain is better off in the EU. We are joining together because we think that the European Union can be more democratic and accountable. I’m pleased to welcome Yanis to Britain for a few days as we continue to build our cross-continental alliance which pushing for an EU that works better for all of us.”

Lisa Nandy, MP for Wigan and Shadow Secretary of State for energy and climate change said:

“This referendum is our chance to make the case for a Europe run in the interests of people, not just big business. We need a Europe that helps us to work together to solve some of the big challenges we face, whether it's climate change, movement of refugees or the growing insecurity of work. Our case must be built on a positive belief that the progress Europe has offered - peace, prosperity and rights at work- can be built on and extended in our common interest over the next century.”

Neal Lawson, Chair of Compass, said:

“No one is discussing what Europe should or could be. The referendum debate is about small minded reforms when people are crying out for a Europe for the 21st century that can address mass migration, climate change and global corporations.” 

ENDS

 [1] Nandy and Lucas set to publish book https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/posts/biteback-publishing-to-publish-power-to-the-people-creating-a-new-progressive-alliance-in-british-politics

[2] Journalists are welcome to attend the Parliamentary Launch on Monday. It will take place in Committee Room 14 at 3.30pm and will feature Neal Lawson of Compass, Lisa Nandy MP, Caroline Lucas MP and Yanis Varoufakis. Camera crews should contact Clare Coatman from Compass: clare@compassonline.org.uk

[4] A Good Europe website: http://www.goodeurope.org/about

To arrange interviews with Caroline Lucas MP please contact: Matthew Butcher on 07885 459 904 orclucasmedia@parliament.uk

To arrange interview with Yanis Varoufakis please contact: fotini.bakadima@gmail.com