David Miliband attacks coalition for Europe contradictions

By Alex Smith / @alexsmith1982

Speaking in parliament this afternoon, David Miliband attacked Tory and Lib Dem views on Europe for being contradictory and incompatible.

“We will hold the government to account for their promises on Europe. Their contradictory, mutually exclusive and incompatible promises on Europe.

“The government goes into European negotiations with no policy on European defence; it is not mentioned in the Coalition agreement; no policy on European energy – also not mentioned; and on justice and home affairs, all they can say is that they will review cases one by one; no principles, no plans.

“The reason is simple: they cannot agree on anything, and Britain is weak as a result. The Prime Minister threatens vetoes abroad; the truth is that policy has been vetoed at home.”

This afternoon, as part of his Labour leadership campaign, David Miliband will unveil his new website at an event in central London with MP and blogger Tom Harris.