It’s the debate that has split the country – and now it could divide Aberdeen City Council.
A motion in the name of finance convener Willie Young will be submitted to the next full meeting calling on members to support continued membership of the European Union.
But the senior administration member will face opposition from his own deputy – Eurosceptic Conservative finance vice convener Ross Thomson.
Leaders of the opposition Liberal Democrat and SNP groups last night confirmed they would vote for Mr Young’s motion, which is due before the council on May 11.
It reads: “[This council] notes the upcoming referendum on the United Kingdom’s membership of the European Union and agrees that Aberdeen is stronger now and will be stronger in the future – economically, politically, and socially – as a partner within the European Union.”
The Labour-led administration came under a barrage of criticism when it sent out pro-union letters with council tax bills during the Scottish independence referendum in 2014.
Last night Mr Young said it was important the council took a position on the June vote.
He said: “From my point of view, the world is getting smaller and we need to be in the EU to make sure we are on the right side of history.
“I think it’s important that authorities make their position known on such a vital issue as this.”
In a rare show of unity, SNP leader Stephen Flynn agreed with him.
He said: “As elected members, we have a duty to ensure that our voices are heard before the public makes its decision on something as important as this.”
And adding to the Pro-EU consensus was Liberal Democrat leader Ian Yuill who said he would only vote against the motion if it involved spending taxpayers’ money.
He added: “I think an out vote would be damaging for Aberdeen, the north-east and Scotland as a whole.”
Mr Thomson is one of only two Tories in the Town House and the other, Alan Donnelly, has confirmed he will be supporting an In vote.
Last night. Mr Thomson described the motion as a “deflection” from the Labour group.
He added: “We are heading into the Scottish elections and one thing that isn’t coming up on the doorsteps is the EU.
“I think Labour want to get people’s minds of the utter shambles of their party.”
