European Communities (Finance) Bill

I have to disagree with my hon. Friend: I do not think that it will surprise the public. I think that they are horrified, to be honest, and very concerned. We are talking about huge sums of money that many people feel could be better spent on existing and new infrastructure in the United Kingdom, for example in east and south-east England. If the Government truly believe that there is an appetite in this country for closer integration with Europe and increased spending on Europe, the best way to test the view would be to have a referendum on the treaty. By having the courage to go to the people, we could have a serious argument and debate that would engage not only the political classes in this Chamber but the public—