We are proud to represent our communities in West Oxfordshire, as Labour and Labour & Cooperative councillors, on Oxfordshire County Council and West Oxfordshire District Council.

We are always focused on getting the best deal for residents and the issues we champion range from big stuff to small. 

One of the big issues is the EU Referendum.

We have all been giving it a huge amount of thought and together we want to let you know that we believe that Britain is better to remain in.

Each of us have our own reasons why we feel this is the right decision and we know everyone will have their own concerns and priorities. 

Here are our key reasons why we think a vote to Remain is right for West Oxfordshire:

Be in it to change it: We know the current set-up isn’t perfect, but without having a seat at the table, we are powerless to build the EU that we want.

Employment, skills and opportunity: Oxfordshire’s universities, hospitals, research centres and large industries thrive because of our place in Europe.

The jobs and skills created in these sectors are the hub of our local economy and the future opportunities of our children. We hear a lot of negative arguments around immigration and we know each area can face unique challenges, but whether it be through staffing our hospitals or bringing in specialist research our region more often than not benefits from free movement.

Environment: Climate change, species protection and maintaining our rivers and streams are just a few of the things that benefit from working together as part of our EU membership.

Rights in the workplace: Some of the most significant achievements of the Labour movement across Europe have been the protection of our rights in the workplace – maternity and paternity leave and pay, health and safety and safe working hours. The EU enshrines and protects these rights for future generations.

Believing in something bigger: Since 1945 we have come together to build peace and collaboration across the continent. We are committed to the idea that we achieve more through common endeavour than we do alone – and that idea extends outside our shores.

I know that many of us feel this isn’t our fight, but if we stand by, we risk allowing others to make the choice for us and for generations to come. 

We hope you join us in voting REMAIN on June 23.

Cllrs LAETISIA CARTER, ANDREW COLES, DUNCAN ENRIGHT, LAURA PRICE, GEOFF SAUL