Rudy Otter, an Anglo-Indian freelance columnist on ABPL’s former Asian Business magazine, heard a song on television that took him back 41 years - because he had a hand in writing it.
A recent BBC Newsnight programme played the song which Rudy co-wrote for the 1975 referendum on Europe. It happened like this.
Rudy, now a retired journalist aged 80, was so keen on Britain remaining in the then Common Market - which promised "easier trading between European countries" - that he decided to make a song about it. He persuaded a musician friend, Roger Darvill (correct) of Kent, to join him in producing a calypso "song for Europe" urging people to vote "Yes" to stay.
Rudy, who lives in west London, explained: "I co-wrote the lyrics with Roger which he set to music and sang beautifully. Some readers may still recall the chorus from 41 years ago: "Let’s stay in the Common Market In Europe we can be great Let’s stay in the Common Market So people don’t you even hesitate No people don’t you hesitate."
Rudy said: "We sent a tape to the pro-Marketers of those days. To our delight, they loved our song and it was played several times on national TV and radio ahead of the 1975 referendum. With luck, who knows, it may well be aired again on tv and radio as the new referendum looms. Hope so, anyway."
He commented: "The original concept of the Common Market, with no trade barriers between European countries, seemed a fantastic idea to most voters. However over the years it has evolved into a more political body, now the European Union, which is not to everyone’s liking.”
He added: ”I have no idea which way I'll be voting on June 23 and may flip a coin three times - heads for IN, tails OUT, to reach a majority decision. It’s no good listening to the so-called experts because neither the Remainers nor Leavers know what they’re talking about. It’s all guesswork and gut feelings this time round."
