Bremain in Spain comments on Spanish election results

30 April 2019
by eub2 -- last modified 30 April 2019

Bremain in Spain, a pro-EU campaign group, says that Sunday's Spanish election result has brought welcome reassurance for Brits living in Spain, with the ruling socialist party, PSOE, gaining an increased share of votes. The voting turnout increased to 75%, despite this being Spain's third general election in four years.

Sue Wilson, chair of Bremain in Spain, said: "Although the far-right party, Vox, secured 24 seats, thankfully its success fell well below expectations, and was countered by a significant increase in vote share for the socialist government. The centre-right PP suffered the biggest losses - a warning, perhaps, to Theresa May's government."

Members of Bremain in Spain say they are reassured by the result. Tamara Essex, a retired person living in Colmenar, Málaga, said: "The result is a relief for those of us who use the excellent healthcare and other services here in Spain. The new far-right party, Vox, is anti-immigrant, and many of us were worried about a lurch back towards extremism. I see this result as being good for Spain, good for the Spanish, and good for us."

Michael Soffe, a self-employed company director based in Málaga, has lived in Spain for over 30 years. He says: "I will sleep much more soundly in my bed tonight. I was worried before the election, but the failure of the far right to gain the forecast number of seats is pleasing. If Sanchez can form a government, I believe this is good news for those of us who live and work in Spain. Now, we must convert this impetus to the local and EU elections, and make our voices heard."

Wilson concludes: "The threat of far-right nationalism has galvanized the Spanish public to vote in large numbers. If we can encourage a high level of participation in the forthcoming EU elections, we stand a chance of defeating the threat of intolerance, racism and isolationism. We must try, for the good of the UK and Europe."

Bremain in Spain is a group campaigning for the UK to remain in the European Union and to protect the rights of British migrants living and working in Spain. Run by a team of volunteers and chaired by Sue Wilson - a resident of the Valencian Community - the group advocates a tolerant and outward-looking society. It believes this is best achieved by the UK remaining a member of the EU. Bremain in Spain is part of the British in Europe coalition of 10 UK citizens' groups across the EU. It is also affiliated to Britain for Europe and European Movement.

Bremain in Spain