Ever since 1973, our membership of the Union has had other less tangible dimensions, including that of idealism. This is a dimension that is often disregarded in the debate and perhaps it is time we raised our sights and focused on the idealism of Europe. We have been proud to be part of a unique and unprecedentedly successful venture which has helped to bring peace and stability to a continent which has been a by-word for bloody conflict in terms of history. We have seen old adversaries leave behind enmity and suspicion and move to partnership and reconciliation, to working together for the common good in a community of sovereign nations.