PRESSURE intensified on David Cameron yesterday as it emerged senior politicians in Brussels want the UK to become a "second class" EU member.
The move will be seen as the European establishment hitting back at eurosceptics within the Tory party.
Under plans being drawn up by the Union of European Federalists, led by LibDem MEP Andrew Duff, the UK would lose its MEPs, its commissioner and its veto. Mr Duff said there was "no enthusiasm for more British grumbling" over Europe.
The scheme would give the UK "associate" EU membership, ensuring it became less influential within the organisation.
While many Tories are keen to disassociate themselves with the EU, they are also concerned the UK can retain key trading rights with its members.
The move comes just a day after the CBI warned the Prime Minister not to throw the "baby out with the bath water" over Europe. He is due to make a speech within weeks setting out his road map for the UK's further relationship with Europe.
Last week, The Herald revealed Mr Cameron faces defections or a challenge to his leadership if he "fudges" the issue, according to senior Tories. They are calling for a significant renegotiation of the UK's relationship with the EU, followed by an in-out referendum on membership.
Ex-Labour MP Lord McFall of Alcluith characterised the European attitude towards the UK as "if that's what you want, we will do our own thing".
The question of an independent Scotland's EU membership has hit the headlines in recent weeks, leading to calls from Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon for talks with Brussels. But the SNP insist the Conservatives pose the greatest threat to Scotland's EU membership.
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