Madam,

The debate on the Referendum on the European Union has taken many guises in recent weeks and there is a real danger that it has become a political war zone of claim and counter-claim with the apparent aim of getting as many hits on your opponent as possible. Whilst some broadcasters may well be pleased with such a constant supply of negative material, pessimistic debates centred around encouraging an electorate to participate in a democratic process will do little to further any cause.

Progressives in Wales may wish to view the referendum as an opportunity, not a threat: an opportunity for us to reaffirm our commitment to devolution and international co-operation whilst stating clearly that we see ourselves as part of a bigger picture in a new world order. For it is a union of European countries that must col-laborate in order to resolve some of the huge issues that currently face the world such as climate change, international conflict, economic inequalities and the movement of people. Nations working together can create a greater ‘sum of parts’ and achieve what would be impossible should we choose to stand alone and retreat into an international cul-de-sac. It is this common thread of working for the greater good that is surely at the heart of the current Referendum debate. Let us embrace this opportunity and vote for peace and international co-operation.

Yours etc

Dyfed Edwards,Plaid Cymru Leader,Gwynedd Council