The Danish PM yesterday opened the door for a referendum on one of Denmark’s four opt-outs from EU co-operation – more specifically on the common defence policy.
“We must have this discussion and definitely with a view to a referendum. That’s what Venstre wants and we would like it during the next parliamentary session, and we’d like to win it,” Lars Løkke Rasmussen told DR Nyheder.
As a result of a referendum in 1993, Denmark secured four opt-outs in areas of EU co-operation. These covered the single currency, prioritising EU citizenship over Danish citizenship, a number of judicial exemptions, and the common security and defence policy.
Rasmussen has long been in favour of Denmark being part of the EU’s defence co-operation. He argues that not being in weakens Denmark’s hand when it comes to implementing security policies to stem the flow of migrants.
The defence minister, Claus Hjort Frederiksen, has also aired similar views.