If there were still any lingering illusions about the deeply serious nature of the referendum on Europe, they must surely now have been dispelled.
The government’s recommendations of the renegotiated terms of entry may have helped to lay the grounds for a Yes vote in the referendum. But the size and nature of the anti-Market revolt inside the Labour party already present an unprecedented threat to the authority of Mr Wilson and his cabinet majority.
It is, of course, only the first round in the fight for party allegiances. But it confirms that a stern struggle lies ahead in which the future leadership and the continued unity of the Labour party may well be at stake, as well as the international status of the United Kingdom.
The referendum campaign looks like having the characteristics of a bitterly fought general election – but in a setting of extreme confusion. This newspaper will try to give the arguments for and against staying in Europe. It will also aim to provide as objective assessment as possible of some of the most controversial issues. At the same time, it will explain editorially why, on balance, it favours Britain staying in the Community.
Talking point
The Kurdish fight for independence has almost certainly been crushed by Iraq after 15 years. General Barzani, the legendary 71-year old leader of two million Kurds, has told his guerilla forces: “You must flee. We are alone with no friends. I think dark times are coming.”
Observer front page story
Key quote
“There is a mania for legislation in detecting discrimination. But all life is about discrimination.”
Enoch Powell, debating the sex discrimination bill in the House of Commons
