COLCHESTER’S MP Will Quince will be voting for Britain to leave the European Union.

He has picked his side but will not be actively working for the “out” campaign.

He said: “My number one priority remains my job as the MP for Colchester, working for local people.

“This is a matter that, ultimately, will be decided by the British people, not politicians.

“But many constituents have asked me which way I was voting and I wanted to let them know how I stood on this important matter.”

Mr Quince, who has studied constitutional and European Union law, believes our national interests are best served as a friend of the EU rather than a part of it.

He said: “It is an on balance decision.

“I was confident the renegotiation process would secure the changes the Prime Minister had committed to.

“I was also hopeful the Prime Minister could return more powers to Britain particularly on home affairs and justice matters.

“He is a skilled negotiator but he has not been able to secure what we wanted.

“I think it speaks volumes that, in the biggest renegotiation Britain has ever attempted with the EU, EU leaders have been unwilling to even grant Britain these relatively modest concessions.”

Critics argue we still have sovereignty. If we didn’t we wouldn’t have a say in whether to stay or leave.

They raise concerns about the economic risks and job security.

And they worry about continued peace in Europe, which closer union has helped secure.

However Mr Quince believes a degree of sovereignty has been sacrificed and he does not accept the other arguments.

He said: “The reality is leaving is a risk but I am confident Britain has a bright future.”

And he believes trade will continue.

“They need us as much as we need them.

“Both sides will still benefit out of a trade agreement and the EU won’t cut off its nose to spite its face.”

He believes other economic opportunities will present themselves for other businesses and with other areas if we leave.

And he believes close links with Europe, helping ensure peace, will not be lost simply by leaving the EU.