MPs to debate a petition relating to the UK joining the European Union

• Watch the debate (from 4.30pm, Monday 24 March)
• Read the debate transcript (available shortly after the conclusion of the debate).
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Paul Davies MP, a member of the Petitions Committee, has been asked by the Committee to open the debate. MPs from all parties can take part, and the Government will send a minister to respond.

"Apply for the UK to join the European Union as a full member as soon as possible"

The petition, which currently has more than 132,000 signatures, states: "I believe joining the EU would boost the economy, increase global influence, improve collaboration and provide stability & freedom. I believe that Brexit hasn't brought any tangible benefit and there is no future prospect of any, that the UK has changed its mind and that this should be recognised."

In its response to the petition, provided on 19 November 2024, the Government said: "The Government was elected on a manifesto that made clear there will be no return to EU membership. However, we are determined to reset the UK-EU relationship, putting it on a more solid footing."

Read the full response

What are petitions debates?

Petitions debates are 'general' debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers.

Petition debates don’t end with a vote to implement the request of a petition. This means MPs will not vote on the request of the petitions at the end of the debate. Instead, the aim is to give MPs an opportunity to discuss the issues raised by a petition, and get a response from the Government.

Petition debates are scheduled by the Petitions Committee. Only e-petitions started on the Parliament petitions site are considered by the Petitions Committee.

Further information

• Find out more about the role of the Petitions Committee
• Find out more about select committees

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