Sir,

The draft agreement negotiated by the Prime Minister with the President of the European Council represents a meaningful and beneficial change in our relationship with the European Union. If enacted, it will make our immigration system fairer; our economy more dynamic; our democracy stronger; and our financial services industry safer from Eurozone meddling.

The very fact it has been agreed demonstrates both the Prime Minister’s formidable skill as a negotiator, and the much under-estimated extent of our influence in Brussels.

If, as I am sure it will be, this matter is settled at the February meeting of the European Council, it will be up to those of us who want Britain to remain to make our case wholeheartedly to the British people.

Sir Nicholas Soames