As a teenager I think I thought that foreigners were
inferior. I changed my mind when I travelled and saw that many countries
organised themselves just as well as we did. In fact their transport systems
were much better. Their values were
equal to ours. Their streets were cleaner without litter.
Now as an enthusiastic European it’s a bit uncomfortable to
have to admit that the Euro-sceptics might be winning the argument. With todays’ formation of a new banking union
in the Eurozone Britain is going to find itself increasingly on the outside
looking in.
I suppose after the
recent Euro crises it was inevitable that the Eurozone would have to draw
together to avoid further bailouts and that Britain would become spectators to
developments in Europe. Unfortunately, greater integration between the Eurozone
countries means that the non-members are forced to consider greater economic
independence. Although Britain’s growth will continue to depend heavily on a
healthy Euro, UK PLC may have to look further afield in future.
One Idea occurred to me: I wonder if Britain could emulate
Hong Kong. Hong Kong thrives as an
‘Off-shore Island’ to China. It manages to capitalise on helping to service
China but stands apart from it. China uses Hong Kong as a conduit to the outer
world and Hong Kong reaps the benefits. Could the UK develop a similar relationship
with Europe?
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