British prime minister warns on Brexit risks

British Prime Minister David Cameron warned on Monday that a vote to leave the EU would risk Britain's economic and national security, as uncertainty over the outcome of the June referendum sent the pound plunging.

In a speech to the House of Commons, the Conservative leader launched a barely-veiled attack on London’s Mayor Boris Johnson, his long-term rival who has come out for a Brexit, accusing him of taking the position for political gain, AFP reported.

As sterling fell to a near seven-year low against the dollar on the currency markets, Cameron told lawmakers that it was time to "properly face up to the economic consequences of a choice to leave".

Cameron warned repeatedly that the threats of terrorism and Russian aggression in Ukraine meant remaining in the 28-member club was more important than ever, saying: "This is no time to divide the West."

"We are a great country and whatever choice we make, we will still be great," Cameron said. "But I believe the choice is between being an even greater Britain inside a reformed EU or a great leap into the unknown."

Cameron emphasized that he has promised not to contest the next election and had "no other agenda than what's best for our a country", a reference to speculation that Johnson is backing Brexit as a move on the Tory leadership.

ME