Former Labour leader Neil Kinnock is backing David Cameron’s new EU deal .
He’s joined by Labour heavy hitters Margaret Beckett, David Blunkett, Jack Straw and Hilary Benn in an open letter published exclusively in the Sunday Mirror.
All five campaigned for Britain to LEAVE Europe during the last referendum in 1975.
But now they say: “It’s clear Britain is stronger, safer and better off than we would or could be if pulled out of the EU.
“The conclusion of the current renegotiation will hopefully strengthen this relationship as we make the progressive case for Britain in Europe.”
The support of such senior Labour figures will be a huge boost for the PM as he attempts negotiates the fine detail of the deal in Brussels.
Lord Kinnock led Labour in general elections against Tory PM’s Margaret Thatcher and Sir John Major.
The other four all held top Cabinet posts in the last Labour governments.
As shadow Foreign Secretary under Jeremy Corbyn , Hilary Benn will mastermind Labour’s EU campaign strategy.
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James McGrory of the Stronger in Europe campaign said: “Voters know that these giants of Labour politics agree on very little with David Cameron .
“But it sends a very strong message that big beasts from across the political spectrum will all be making the case for Britain staying in. It’s hugely significant.”
Neil Kinnock, Margaret Beckett, David Blunkett, Jack Straw and Hilary Benn's open letter
In the 1975 referendum we all campaigned against remaining in what is now the European Union.
Now, and for a long time past, it has been clear Britain is stronger, safer and better off than we would or could be if we pulled out.
Our concern then was that membership would mean a one-way loss of sovereignty and investment. This has proved unfounded.
We are part of an economic partnership with 27 other democracies, exercising full rights to determine agreed rules in the world’s largest single market.
That has brought three million jobs, it attracts large investment, promotes growth and provides for employment rights that protect British workers.
We also have control of our currency, borders, security, defence, foreign affairs and justice.
Britain’s voice on global matters, whether debt relief, peace-keeping or climate change, is amplified by being part of Europe. Intelligence sharing helps us fight terrorism and other crime.
The conclusion of the renegotiation will hopefully strengthen this relationship as we make the progressive case for Britain in Europe.
Leaving would be a huge risk to prosperity, security and the opportunities of future generations.
The EU is not perfect and improvement is always worth making, but the benefits far outweigh the costs.
– Neil Kinnock, Margaret Beckett, David Blunkett, Jack Straw and Hilary Benn