Sarkozy has been quoted as saying that we will not have a strong Europe without strong nations, which seemed to be an attempt to back away from a federal state. I believe it is, and I think there are a few signs that the euro-elite recognize that their federal plans are not likely to succeed. Little things like the backtrack on the weights and measures legislation, the Lib Dems retreating on the euro, Chris Huhne saying that Toben should not be extradicted despite passing the legislation that made it clear he should (I assume pressure was brought to bear diplomatically on Germany, which is how this farce of democracy really works) all point to a retreat. The financial crisis has given them a card to play, but the deck is stacked against them.
Whatever the case, the fact that Europe is a mechanism for satisfying the egotism of politicians remains so. There is no surprise that the biggest supporter in this country for the idea of a European President was Tony Blair. Sarkozy’s ambitions in that regard are obvious. His performance in the European Soviet also shows he is not averse to using the euro-patriotism of the MEPs to get what he wants. His attempts to push the Czech’s out of their presidency have taken another step up with news that he is refusing to attend the ceremony for handing over power to them. It is a clear attempt to create an alternative authority in the EU, with France at the forefront. Coming after his attempt to create an unofficial ‘economic government’ of Europe it shows an alarmingly cowboy approach to international relations. Even if the federalists dreams are over, there are great dangers to the webby morass of powers throttling Europe.
EU007 