MP James Wharton, the man behind the EU Referendum Bill, is campaigning in Ramsgate on Friday (January 17).

He has been invited to the town by its MP Laura Sandys who said: “I am very excited to be welcoming the architect of the EU Referendum Bill to Thanet. I recently undertook a survey on this very issue and the results were clear: the residents of Thanet want a say on EU membership and support this proposed legislation which would guarantee an In/Out referendum in 2017.

“I know that James is really keen to meet local residents to ask for their feedback and opinions. It is also a great opportunity for those with any questions to come along and ask the expert.”

Mr Wharton said: “I am thrilled to be coming to Thanet where there has been so much support for my Bill.

“The Conservatives are the only party fighting to get the Bill through and give the British public the referendum they deserve. It would be extremely disappointing if Labour stands against the will of the people and blocks this Bill. It is a very important time and I want to ask local residents for their views.”

Julie Marson, MEP candidate, said: “Against all the odds and despite numerous attempts by both Labour and the Liberal Democrats to block it, James Wharton’s EU Referendum Bill successfully made it through the House of Commons just before Christmas.

“The Bill is now moving through the House of Lords where Labour and Liberal Democrat peers are already opposing it, attempting to thwart this chance to give people a say on EU membership.

“As a local candidate for the European elections, I know just how important this issue is to the people of Thanet, East Kent and beyond so I am delighted that James will be visiting on Friday.”

Mr Wharton will be in the town centre at the junction of King Street and Harbour Street from 10.45am.