i’m backing lib dems says eu chief
THE European Parliament’s chief Brexit negotiator wants the Liberal Democrats to win the election.
Former Belgian prime minister Guy Verhofstadt said he hopes Britain reverses its decision to leave the EU.
He gave his backing to Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron, who wants to hold a second referendum.
Senior MEP Mr Verhofstadt said: “I am a liberal, so I would like the Lib Dems to get a big result.”
The endorsement by a man who has led calls to punish Britain for Brexit has sparked warnings about voters backing Mr Farron on June 8.
Mo Metcalf-Fisher, of pro-Brexit campaigning group Conservative Progress, said: “Given the ill will Verhofstadt has shown Britain since the historic Brexit vote, it is no surprise that he wants the Lib Dems to win.
“It shows the hardline Remainers are lining up with people who want to undermine Britain. It is truly disappointing “
Mr Verhofstadt, who claims to love British marmalade, also told a Sunday magazine that the last time he saw Brexit Secretary David Davis he greeted him with: “Welcome to hell.”
He said: “Every day I receive maybe 5,000 letters about Brexit.
“They express so much uncertainty and fear, we must react positively to them.
“One of my plans is to help create a link for Britons who want to remain connected to Europe.” He added: “Theresa May has made the election about Brussels but then complains, ‘Brussels has said something!’
“The election result will have no impact on the EU.
“Nothing will change if the Conservatives win a bigger
majority.”