Prime Minister David Cameron has laid out his plans for EU reforms, arguing that the European Union needs to play a lesser role in the day-to-day functioning of its member states, ahead of the membership referendum in 2017.

The Prime Minister is due to state his aims in a letter to the president of the European Council, which will include four main objectives. These will be the protection of the single market for Britain and other non-euro countries, a boost in competitiveness, exemption for Britain from an “ever-closer union” and restrictions upon EU migrants’ access to in-work benefits.

In his speech, Cameron said:

“Never forget that the European Union now comprises 28 ancient nations of Europe. That very diversity is Europe’s greatest strength. Britain says: let’s celebrate that fact, let’s acknowledge that the answer to every problem is not always more Europe. Sometimes it’s less Europe.”

David Cameron has committed to forming a better deal for the UK but remain in Europe, however admits that if that cannot be achieved, he may be in favour of leaving the EU altogether.

Arguably, Cameron’s aims for reform of the EU may be nothing but a fantasy; in particular, the restriction of access to benefits for EU migrants, as certain basic rules governing this area are enshrined in EU law and are part and parcel of being in the EU. However, whilst Cameron admits his mission is ‘big’, he says it is not impossible – the truth of this remains to be seen.