The Times is reporting that Gordon Brown’s negotiating position in Brussels has been unexpectedly strengthened. Scared at the prospect of a Conservative victory in an early general election, EU powers are apparently willing to prioritize British agenda items in the coming months, lest the Conservatives come to power and hold a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty.
Firstly, this is a calculated and serious interference in British domestic politics and lays to bed any semblance of democracy or decency on the part of the European Union. Secondly, it is all but certain that Britain’s interests will not be furthered in any significant way. The report suggests Brown wants to prioritize a ‘green agenda’, which is cynical in the extreme since this is already a long-standing priority for the EU and especially the new Swedish EU Presidency.
Thirdly, it reveals the power that Britain could wield within the European Union on a consistent basis if only it had the political will to do so. It is patently clear that Brussels needs Britain more than vice versa, and will stop at nothing to avoid the renegotiation of Britain’s relationship with the EU. With this in mind, David Cameron should not be afraid to hold a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty regardless of its ratification status. He should have no hesitation in telling the British people that he intends to negotiate a relationship with Europe that maximizes the benefits and minimizes the costs, none of which is possible under the terms of the Lisbon Treaty.
Gordon Brown should not be taking any solace from the warm welcome he received in Paris today. Although the compliments showered upon him will be welcome relief from the battering he now receives on a daily basis in Britain, he can be sure that it will only last as long as he is serving the European project. Gordon Brown continues to preside over a failing and flailing Government which lacks the credibility and legitimacy of public support. Notching up a few favors in Brussels will not revive his political career and will not see British interests furthered.
