Responding to David Cameron's speech outlining his renegotiation demands today, leaders of the S&D Group in the European Parliament made clear their unwavering support for Britain's continued EU membership.
Gianni Pittella, president of the S&D Group, said:
"The EU as a whole and the UK in particular benefit hugely from the UK's membership of the Union. The EU is more powerful politically, economically and diplomatically with Britain inside. We are clear that Europe would be considerably weaker if the British people did vote to leave. However the UK also benefits hugely from its position within the EU. From tackling climate change to the refugee crisis, no individual country can solve global or regional issues in isolation."
"We will look closely at Cameron's proposals in the coming weeks and months but are pleased to see he backed away from damaging changes to the EU social chapter. Going forward, we are against anything that involves discrimination of people from other EU member states. As progressives we welcome the prospect of EU reform, though will not agree with a weakening of the EU."
