UK’s Cameron tells ministers: Back me on EU referendum or quit

British Prime Minister David Cameron sought to quell fresh signs of rebellion in his Conservative Party over Europe, warning ministers they will have to back his European Union strategy or leave his government. Speaking on the sidelines of a meeting in Germany of the Group of Seven Industrial nations (G7), Cameron, who has pledged to renegotiate Britain’s EU ties before offering an in-out membership referendum, signalled he would not tolerate dissent. He warned those who wanted to be part of the government will need to take the view that there is currently an exercise of renegotiation to have a referendum which will lead to a successful outcome.

If I can get a position where Britain would be better off in a reformed Europe, then obviously that’s not something the government is neutral about.

David Cameron, British Prime Minister

Cameron spoke out after a group of over 50 of his own lawmakers said they were prepared to join a campaign backing a British EU exit, known as a ‘Brexit,’ unless he achieved radical changes in the bloc. It was the first sign of Eurosceptic revolt since he was re-elected last month. He is vulnerable, however, as he commands a mere 12-seat majority in the 650-seat House of Commons. A fully-fledged rebellion over Europe among his own lawmakers could derail his wider lawmaking agenda and cast a cloud over his second term in office.

Politics cameron EU