No ballot has mattered more than June’s referendum on United Kingdom membership of the European Union, according to a former European Commissioner who says it will shape both our position in the world and our identity as a nation

New walking shoes, slippery stone steps and a three-metre fall have left me bruised, bandaged and bloodied but with only minor breakages. In other circumstances I would have plenty to say about whether Britain should remain a member of the European Union. But at least from my bed I am able to reflect on the tone of the referendum debate and those voices calling for a little more light and less heat. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done.

That is partly because the issues are so important. I cannot think of a single general election campaign in my lifetime when they have been equally important. The outcome will determine what sort of country we are part of, and what sort of contribution the so-called West can make to the future of our civilisation.

Those who point joyfully to the prospect of leaving the EU, as though we would be like the prisoners in Fidelio stumbling into the light, argue that those who note some of the consequences of this “liberation” offer nothing but fear. It is an odd charge that is surprising to farming, business, military and university leaders who ask serious questions unanswered by the “Outers”.