European Summit Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

European Summit

Nadhim Zahawi Excerpts
Thursday 24th March 2011

(13 years, 1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
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Mark Hoban Portrait Mr Hoban
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My hon. Friend is absolutely right. The decision taken by the previous Chancellor meant that we became part of the ESFM, and that is why the liability exists today. My hon. Friend is absolutely spot on: we have taken difficult decisions in this country. This Government have decided to tackle the deficit that Labour left behind, and we have a clear plan to do it. The Opposition have no ideas. Under a Labour Government, this country would be running out of steam.

Nadhim Zahawi Portrait Nadhim Zahawi (Stratford-on-Avon) (Con)
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The events last night in Portugal bring into sharp focus why it is important to maintain the confidence of the markets. Is the Minister glad that this Prime Minister did not attend the meeting of the 17 eurozone countries, because the last Prime Minister attended and gave away our rebate?

Mark Hoban Portrait Mr Hoban
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Certainly, the previous Government very rarely showed any backbone in dealing with our European partners on the rebate or other matters. This Government stand up for Britain’s interests when it comes to the debate in Europe. We have done that on the rebate, on the budget and on this mechanism.