Louth & Horncastle MP: '˜We're better off in the EU'

The Conservative MP for Louth & Horncastle released a statement today (February 22) in which she said: “The forthcoming referendum on the European Union is a pledge made and a pledge kept.

“Every citizen will have the right to express their opinion on our membership of the EU through the ballot box and my vote as your Member of Parliament has equal weight to yours.

“I have given the issue much thought and consideration over recent months, as well as seeking the views of constituents.

“The Prime Minister led and conducted a rigorous negotiation and achieved a package of reforms which gives our country a special status within the EU. I believe this to be of benefit to the UK.

“I judge it to be in the best interests of our country to remain a member of the European Union on the terms laid out by the Prime Minister and I shall, therefore, vote in favour of our continued membership.”

• Ms Atkins’ announcement comes just two days after East Midlands MEP, Emma McClarkin (Conservative), announced that she will be supporting the campaign for the United Kingdom to leave the EU.