We can't pick and choose rules

So, our county Tory MPs are calling on Shropshire councils to arrange their own referendums over the European Reform Treaty.

If they succeed in that call, I do hope that they will be paying for it.

I happen to believe that we should have a nationwide referendum on the EU, but that it should be as suggested by the Lib Dems - on whether or not we, as a nation, wish to remain in the EU or get out of it.

I believe in democracy. If the majority want out, based on factual information, then so be it.

But if the majority want in, then we should participate wholeheartedly, albeit with constructive criticism.

The vast majority of thinking adults accept that whoever wins an election gets to govern - balanced, it is hoped, by an effective opposition, but without any suggestion that the winning party should be got rid of at the behest of the minority.

Someone wanting to join a club cannot pick and chose which of the club rules they will abide by.

As to Daniel Kawczynski's claim that the demand for a referendum was the most important issue we face today: No, it is not.

The majority of people, I would say, are far more concerned with the pension disaster we are facing; the lack of affordable housing (while second homes are charged reduced, rather than double council tax); and the increasingly unaccountable public services.

No doubt someone will now pop up to claim that all those concerns are caused by the EU, but - if so - I would appreciate the courtesy of sourced, factual evidence.

Malcolm MacIntyre-Read, Much Wenlock