I AM growing increasingly concerned by the frequent claims, from the far left to the far right, that the European Union is undemocratic. 

New EU legislation must be passed by both the European Parliament (democratically elected by EU citizens) and European Council (comprised of the democratically elected heads of government of member states). 

This new legislation is initially proposed by the European Commission.

Commission members are nominated by the democratically elected heads of government and each new commission has to be approved by the democratically elected European Parliament.

The Commission proposes new legislation according to European Union treaties (agreed between all of the democratic member states) and following extensive consultation – including with the European parliament. 

Aside from legislation specifically, the EU has played a very considerable role in protecting, promoting and establishing democracy in countries throughout Europe – especially in those countries which have suffered at the hands of tyrants and dictators.

Instead of being undemocratic, the EU is a vital force for democracy. To walk away from it would be to deny British citizens their say in how Europe is governed. It would also undermine the EU’s efforts to promote democracy.

This would be a betrayal of democracy itself.

TOM CARRUTHERS
Wolfson College, Linton Road, Oxford