Camera shy

Paul Barltrop Politics Show West BBC West

There is no mistaking the size of the feeling

A one-sided referendum is underway in Somerset with 50,000 electors being able to vote on the new EU Treaty. But only one side will be out campaigning - and the local MP has turned rather camera shy.

"I'm not selling anything, Peter, no, this is the leaflet to do with the EU referendum!"

Laughter echoes around the market place of the pretty Somerset town of Castle Cary.

Behind the campaigner, a giant ballot box is being inflated. The message on the side: "I want a referendum".

Local ballots

The Treaty issue raises many a hackle

It is the West Country launch of a series of referendums.

Voters in 10 constituencies can have their say on the new EU Treaty.

In Somerton and Frome, 50,000 electors have been sent ballot papers. It is being run by an independent firm.

"The electorate have got a very good way of understanding really what's basically at stake," insists campaign chairman, Derek Scott.

This treaty - like the previous constitution - means more and more integration Derek Scott

"This treaty - like the previous constitution - means more and more integration and I don't think they like that," he insists.

Cross-party campaign

The campaign has backers in all main parties.

But the seats they have targeted are all Labour or Liberal Democrat - because they are opposed to holding a national vote on the treaty.

And it has put the local MP in a bit of a pickle.

David Heath is telling anyone who asks that he favours a referendum.

But he will not say so on camera.

Mocking the MP

I think it's rather concerning that he [David Heath] doesn't come out with strong decisions Annunziata Rees-Mogg

It gives plenty of ammunition to his opponents - especially Conservatives in this highly marginal seat.

"I think it's rather concerning that he doesn't come out with strong decisions," says their candidate Annunziata Rees-Mogg.

Another activist recalls that he also prevaricated over hunting.

"He's sat on the fence as he does on quite a lot of issues," says Christina Phillimore. "He has not been proactive in bringing forth the idea of a referendum."

David Heath will be interviewed - once the controversial EU Treaty vote is over.

Then constituents will know how he really voted - and whether he has kept his job as a Lib Dem frontbencher.

Watch the Politics Show on TV with Jon Sopel and David Garmston on BBC One, 12:00 GMT, Sunday 10 February 2008 - or click the latest programme button at the top of this page.

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