USDAW members rejected giving the British people a say over future membership of the European Union yesterday.

Conference overwhelmingly backed a motion opposing a referendum on staying in the capitalist bloc, claiming British workers would lose rights and key trade with European neighbours.

North West Tesco delegate Mark Begley, a former coalminer, made the case for democracy, pointing out that EU legislation was behind the pit closures that have blighted communities up and down Britain.

“I want a referendum and to be out of Europe,” he said.

“You see what has happened in Ireland where they were made to vote three times on membership until they gave the ‘right’ answer.”

But delegates accepted motion-mover John McLean’s claim that withdrawal would hit improvements to towns and cities through the loss of EU grants.

“EU laws make the environment safer and also ensure food labels are clear and accurate so we can make informed choices about how we shop,” he said.

However North West Tesco delegate and former coal miner Mark Begley spoke against the motion, blaming EU legislation for the pit closures.

He said: “I want a referendum and to be out of Europe. You see what has happened in Ireland where they were made to vote three times on membership until they gave the ‘right’ answer. “