How do we make Britain stronger in Europe?

We have to admit that our near-term future lies principally inside Europe. We have no real influence on America any longer, and little in the Commonwealth. Our lack of engagement with Europe is losing us immediate benefits, and more importantly lessens our influence over Europe’s future shape. We should adopt the single currency, and really engage in shaping the political future, not as an unfortunate necessity, but as a real opportunity to contribute to the most important political evolution in the world today.

How do you make Britain stronger in Europe? It’s easy. You don’t. The real question is: How do you make Britain an actual part of Europe? First you make sure that Britain is in Europe psychologically, and that British people are fully aware of the fact. Indeed, they keep saying “Europe” meaning “the European continent” (i.e. not them). If they realized how their economic welfare is dependent on European integration they might decide to join the euro zone. Britain can’t always hide behind the Americans’ legs in poodle-like fashion… — C

---

Last updated 2004/10/31