Speeches, etc.

Margaret Thatcher

Foreword to Conservative European Manifesto

Document type: Speeches, interviews, etc.
Source: Conservative European Manifesto 1984
Editorial comments: Item listed by date of publication.
Importance ranking: Major
Word count: 253
Themes: European elections, European Union (general), European Union Budget, Foreign policy (Western Europe - non-EU)

Britain joined the European Community with a vision.

We saw opportunities for trade and greater prosperity. But we also saw in the Community the promise of peace and security, an alliance in which endeavour, enterprise and invention could flourish.

For the first time in history, the very idea of an armed conflict between the countries of Western Europe has become unthinkable. As we celebrate the anniversary of D-Day, we shall also be celebrating almost 40 years of peace among the nations of Europe.

Membership of the Community has had its problems. But we have tackled them with courage and vigour.

When the European Parliament was directly elected five years ago, we Conservatives promised that our Government would defend Britain's vital national interests. We have kept our promise. Today, Britain's voice in Europe is strong and clear, and its message is respected by our partners.

We have been right to fight for improvements to the Common Agricultural Policy and for a fairer system of finance.

We want these things so that we can put behind us the endless haggling over money and begin to develop the full potential of the Community.

These coming European elections are part of our commitment to peace with freedom and justice.

It is vital that Britain's voice remains strong in Europe. We do not want to see our accomplishments and our future damaged by those who seek only to destroy what has already been achieved.

That is why I ask for your support on June 14th.

Margaret Thatcher