IT’S a pity that all those still uncertain how to vote on July 23 couldn’t attend St Mary’s Priory, Abergavenny on Monday evening. 
Two hundred people packed into the Priory to hear Shirley Williams give a masterly summary of the ‘Remain’ case, without a hint of character assassination or bitterness.
Her academic career, and her life at the centre of government, made her fully aware of the faults of the European Union, and the arguments for and against, but she had no doubt that, on balance, it is better for Britain, the EU and the world in general that we are there, sharing the decision making, and offering the leadership for which we are renowned and respected.
The problems we face are worldwide – climate change, terrorism, nuclear proliferation and unfair multinational practices to name a few – and now is not the time to turn our backs on our friends and neighbours and fragment a perilous world. 
She also feared that a ‘Leave’ result could lead to the break up of the United Kingdom, which would be an absolute tragedy.
Many thanks to Shirley, and the Church in Wales, Father Mark Soady in particular, for inviting her.
 
David Hando
Hartridge
Newport