I was wrong to doubt PM over Europe, admits MP

WORCESTER MP Robin Walker has admitted he was wrong to doubt Prime Minister David Cameron's ability to secure a cut in the European Union's budget.

Mr Walker warned last month that EU spending was likely to increase as a result of Parliament's decision to allow Mr Cameron to negotiate a freeze in the budget.

But his concerns proved to be ill-founded with the British PM managing to secure a £29billion reduction in the EU budget over the next seven years at a summit in Brussels.

It marks the first cut in the EU budget in its 56-year history.

“Like so many commentators I was gloomy in my predictions for this particular set of discussions," said Mr Walker.

"I apologise for ever doubting the Prime Minister would be able to deliver. I was genuinely worried that by giving up the ability to argue for a freeze, we might be forced into a situation where no agreement could be reached and therefore the budgets would continue to rise by inflation every year. I am delighted to be proven wrong.”

Mr Walker has already voiced his support for the PM in calling for a renegotiation of Britain’s membership of the EU and has backed an 'in or out' referendum to allow the British people to decide the country's future in Europe.

"This does not in any way mean the British people should be denied their say on Europe however, the enormity of these figures in times of austerity, is a reminder of why it is so vital for people to have a real say," he added.

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