PADDY ASHDOWN JOINS EUROPEAN MOVEMENT AS PRESIDENT

Paddy Ashdown becomes President of the European Movement, joining the fight to win the EU Referendum

The European Movement is extremely honoured that Paddy Ashdown, former leader of the Liberal Democrats, former international community High Representative and EU Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has agreed to become its new President. He will play an important role working with the European Movement in making the case for a Remain result in the forthcoming referendum on Europe.

"Paddy brings a rare combination of political acumen, experience of international affairs and campaigning skills, but most importantly has the ability to reach way beyond his political roots and talk common sense about our role in Europe," said Laura Sandys, chair of the European Movement UK. "There has never been a more important time for this country to gather the best skills to fight the EU referendum and our movement is lucky to have been joined by such a political force."

Paddy Ashdown, (Lord Ashdown of Norton-sub-Hamden) President of the European Movement said: "We are about to enter the battle of our lives to keep Britain in the European Union. What is at stake is no less than the 'Great' in Great Britain, both metaphorically and literally. The choice is between a divided Britain which retreats into isolation or a Britain which maintains the foundations on which our greatness has been built. Outward looking, engaged and playing our full part in our continent."