A LIBERAL Democrat MP visited York to launch his party's local EU referendum campaign.

The party's foreign affairs spokesman Tom Brake MP joined local activists and councillors at the Friends Meeting House on Friargate to start their York campaign for Britain to stay in the EU.

Mr Brake said: "I am happy to visit York Liberal Democrats and assist in the launch of their campaign to stay in the EU. It is imperative that we continue to build support to remain in the EU.

"There is too much uncertainty and the decision to leave will have negative effects on our economy and security. I urge York residents to support the initiative to stay in the EU as it will keep prices low, and provide a better, safer environment in which to work and raise families."

Local Lib Dems are highlighting the importance of the EU to York’s economy.

The party's leader on City of York Council, Cllr Keith Aspden, said: "We know that around 350,000 jobs in Yorkshire depend upon trade links with the EU and business leaders such as the Chairman of Nestlé have said membership is crucial.

"It’s not just big firms that want to stay in the EU, but small and medium-sized local businesses recognise its importance as they can pick-up vital contracts across Europe. The EU is far from perfect but leaving would be leap in the dark for York’s economy.”