THE risible promise of a 2017 referendum on our EU membership was forced out of our keenly Europhile Prime Minister by the rise of Ukip.

David Cameron hoped to gain votes, while delaying the process for as long as possible, but the heavyweights in his party will never allow this country to leave the EU. The ruthless and shocking removal of Mrs Thatcher puts this beyond all doubt.

The frustration of being denied the opportunity to vote for a party which admits that we should be out of the EU has ended.

Nigel Farage’s enlarging party must be represented in the Commons, hence the loyalty and determination of Ukip voters.

Even if Mr Cameron had been planning to stay in office, his worthless and reluctant “promise” is dead and buried.

Ian Oglesby, High Catton Road, Stamford Bridge, York.