Britain has voted in the largest democratic exercise in a generation. A record number of people registered, many voting for the first time in their life. That so many people have engaged with this debate is heartening for the future. I hope many people continue their interest by joining a political party, campaigning for the causes for which they care or taking an active role in politics. I hope that younger people, especially, take up this challenge as we embark upon a new chapter in British history.
It's been a tough campaign for all involved but I am glad that we live in a country where we can all freely express our opinions and that our democratic will is respected by politicians. In many countries around the world that is pure fantasy.
Over 1,000,000 more people voted to take back control from Brussels, for Britain to write her own laws, control immigration and look beyond the EU for more trade and commerce. Fareham followed the national trend. 71,772 people voted in total (79.6% of the electorate). Of those, 39,525 people voted to leave (55%), and 32,210 people voted to remain in the EU (45%). This is a clear instruction from the British people to government to leave the EU and I am pleased with that result. I will do all I can to secure a favourable settlement for Britain's interests in the months and years ahead.
However I acknowledge that there is currently a lot of disappointment and fear amongst many parts of Britain. I would like to reassure all those who are fearful. The £ has already rallied past February levels, tonight the FTSE closed on a weekly high, 2.4% up on last Friday, it's best performance in 4 months. We can reclaim our seat at the WTO. A big bank denied that 200 jobs would be moved out of London. The 'special relationship' still exists. The CBI, fiercly pro -EU has said that business will be resilient and would adapt. Several countries outside the EU have said they want to start immediate trade talks with the UK.
Yes, there is a challenge ahead of figuring out our new relationship but we have the talent and experience to thrive.
So, to those who voted Remain, I ask for respect for the vote. We need unity for as a country as we face up to the challenge ahead. Now, more than ever, we need to pull together in the same direction, putting previous divisions aside and engaging in calm and rational discussion.
I have no doubt that our country will continue to play a positive role in the world. I know that Britain will maintain her open-mindedness, tolerance, progressiveness, economic prudence and commitment to social reform. That is the Britain I love and am so honoured to serve in Parliament.
My article in The Telgraph: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/06/20/britain-needs-brexit-so-it-can-decide-its-own-fate-without-askin/