Today at conference, Liberal Democrat members overwhelmingly endorsed our plan to offer the British people a referendum on the final Brexit deal negotiated by the Government.

The Liberal Democrats are now the only party whose official policy is to continue campaigning for the UK to remain a member of the EU.

“The Lib Dems are now the only party whose official policy is to keep the UK a member of the EU”

During the debate, two former leaders of the Liberal Democrats, Nick Clegg and Menzies Campbell spoke powerfully on the importance of Europe.

In his speech, Nick said the single market was a UK creation that was vital for jobs and prosperity. Nick also set out his fears that under pressure from “swivel-eyed” Conservative backbenchers and the Eurosceptic press, Theresa May will pursue a so-called “hard Brexit” – leading to “gridlock” in negotiations with the rest of the EU.

He also had a few choice words for the people who led us into this whole mess:

“The Tories are up Brexit creek without a paddle, a canoe or a map – they have absolutely no clue.” – Nick Clegg

Meanwhile, Menzies Campbell used his speech to argue forcefully for a referendum on the final Brexit deal, saying:

“Until you know the terms of withdrawal how do you decide if they are acceptable and the consequences?” – Ming Campbell

We trusted the British people with the question of our departure, and we believe we should trust them with the question of our destination.

The terms of Brexit will have a huge impact on jobs, security and the opportunity to travel and live abroad.

Such a momentous and important choice cannot be secretly stitched up by bureaucrats on both sides of the Channel without the British people or our Parliament having a say.

As the only party who will give the public a vote on the final deal and the only party who will campaign to remain in the EU, it’s clear that we are the real opposition to the Conservative Brexit government, fighting to keep Britain open, tolerant and united.