Case study: calls for a referendum over the 200 EU Reform treaty

Question 1

Why did the referendum take place?

Answer 1

Similarities between the new document and the constitution that replaced it

Question 2

What was David Cameron’s view?

Answer 2

Supported the referendum
It would create greater unity within their own ranks
It would put Gordon Brown on the back foot

Question 3

Tony Blair’s and Gordon Brown’s view point

Answer 3

Tory’s supporting a public vote was “utterly absurd”

The treaty tied up loose ends from previous treaties

Question 4

What did the August 2007 opinion poll show?

Answer 4

80% if the general public favoured a vote

Question 5

What was TUC’s primary concern?

Answer 5

UK would opt out from proposed charter of rights

Question 6

What did the TUC September conference want?

Answer 6

The government to honour its 2005 commitment, by holding a referendum over the original constitution