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06/10/2004
The balance of power is changing in Europe

Speaking today at the Conservative Party Conference, Jonathan Evans MEP, Leader of the Conservatives in the European Parliament, will highlight how the balance of power is changing in Europe.

Mr Evans will say: "Some people have opposed the enlargement of the EU. I believe they are wrong. The very ideas that swept away the old order that divided our continent can help us to usher in a new era in Europe too. These countries are, for the most part, believers in the transatlantic alliance, in the free market, and above all, in the nation state.

"Already, the old power balances in Europe are changing. France and Germany can no longer snap their fingers and expect the others to fall into line. And as their influence is on the wane, we are finding allies and friends who share our priorities. The talk in Prague, Bratislava, Warsaw and Tallinn is of the power of the free market, of low taxes, of private enterprise, of deregulation. These nations have gone through the pain of change and reform. They know that the old ways in Europe are not working. So just as Mr Blair is trying to bind us to the old Europe and the old ways, we in the Conservative Party must seize the moment. We must offer leadership in Europe and work with our friends on the continent for a new vision. Change is in the air."

Mr Evans will say that a vote for any Party other than the Conservatives at the General Election will be a vote for the return of a Labour Government committed to the European Constitution, committed to the Euro, committed to a European defence force and committed to the creation of a European superpower.

"Conservative MEPs will fight day in day out for Britain, for our national interest and for a Europe of nation states. We will fight to turn back the tide of EU regulation, to promote enterprise and economic growth. We will continue to expose fraud and waste in Europe. We will continue to stand up for British farmers and fishermen.

"Most importantly of all, we are in the frontline in the battle to defeat the European Constitution. And with your help, defeat it we will."

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