MPs across Worcestershire have urged David Cameron to push for serious EU reform - saying "the status quo is not good enough".

County MPs yesterday backed the Prime Minister's pledge to have an in/out referendum by the end of 2017, with an EU Bill passing its second reading in parliament.

It comes as West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin, who has just been appointed City Minister by Mr Cameron, used her strongest words yet to criticise Europe, saying it is "clear our current relationship needs to change".

The PM's plan is to renegotiate the UK's relationship with the EU ahead of an in/out vote, with confusion reigning this week over whether ministers will be free to campaign for an exit.

Mrs Baldwin said: "It is clear our current relationship with Europe needs to change and I fully support the Prime Minister’s efforts to renegotiate.

"The status quo is not good enough.

"After this work has been carried out, the people will have the chance to decide on our membership of the European Union.

"The EU Referendum Bill is the first step on the journey to deliver on a pledge the Conservatives gave to the British people to have their say on this important issue."

Worcester MP Robin Walker, who rebelled in 2011 in order to try and secure an EU vote, yesterday said he was "delighted" that the Bill was before the Commons.

"I'm delighted it got a second reading, I rebelled in order to try and achieve an EU referendum," he said.

"It's very good news and I notice Labour and the Liberal Democrats withdrew their opposition."

The county's newest MP, meanwhile, says he wants to "see what comes of the renegotiation" before making his mind up on which way to campaign.

Nigel Huddleston, who represents Mid-Worcestershire, said: "The debate in the chamber is reflective of national opinion.

"There are some who want to come out of Europe no matter what, some who want to stay in Europe no matter what and then a large number who are willing to see what comes out of the renegotiation and will then make up their mind based on what's in Britain's best economic interests.

"I count myself in the latter camp."

Mr Cameron faced national newspaper headlines accusing him of a u-turn on the issue yesterday, after he claimed his comments suggesting ministers would have to back him on the EU vote or quit were "misinterpreted".

Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond was challenged over it in the Commons yesterday but told MPs it would be "simply hypothetical" to talk about who could do what until the outcome of the talks have concluded.

The vote, which followed the first debate on the EU Referendum Bill, means the legislation moves to the next stage of its progress through parliament.

MPs voted by 544 to 53 in favour of the bill last night, with the Conservatives and Labour supporting it but the SNP going against.

Earlier in the day, MPs voted to reject an SNP amendment opposing the bill.