Press Release - 20th October 2007

TIME FOR SOME FRESH THINKING ON EUROPE, SAYS LORD TRIMBLE

In a five-day series of articles for The Daily Telegraph, Global Vision sets out a realistic, global alternative to the current relationship between Britain and Europe. The articles show how Britain can negotiate a better, more modern relationship in order to get the best out of Europe.

In the final article concluding the series on the Telegraph's website today, the Rt Hon Lord Trimble argues that it is time for some fresh thinking on Europe. He says, "Too many commentators and politicians have spent too much time denying the inexorable sweep of European integration, claiming that the EU is ‘going our way' and failing to see that Europe's present attitude to global trade and competition are bad for all of us. It is time for a positive debate and a popular decision on just what sort of relationship is right for Britain and Europe."

Instead of Europe's politicians fighting Britain tooth and nail if we sought a different relationship, Trimble believes the time has come that most on the continent would be relieved to see the end of continual argument about ‘British interests', ‘red lines' and the associated political grandstanding. Others could then proceed with their desired European political integration without Britain obstructing the process. Switzerland and Norway already have constructive, forward-looking relationships with Europe and they work. It could also work for Britain.

Trimble goes on to say,

"This country has a great future whatever happens to the Reform Treaty, but the issue of our relationship with the EU must be grasped. We need a referendum on the Reform Treaty but we also need a decision on the basic course for our country."

Trimble believes the critical question is now, "Do we go deeper into the ‘European project', or with a looser, more modern relationship with Europe, do we focus on the arrangements and institutions that will be needed in the increasingly globalised economy and society of the 21st century?"