The scary opposition to the EU in Britain is mainly driven by dislike of the huge number of immigrants, who have taken both jobs and housing from ordinary Brits. But where the UK Independence Party has not done its homework is in the economics of leaving the EU. I quote just one of many reasons for very much staying put:
Norway rejected the EU and opted for a free trade agreement. It may seem strange but the fact is that in return for this Norway has to pay 188 million euros annually towards the EU budget and 260 million on reducing economic and social disparities. The cost of the deal per head for each Norwegian is 98 euros per year. The cost per head of full membership for each and every Brit is 76 euros. On top of that, Norway has been forced to adopt EU rules in any case in order to avoid extra cost to Norwegian companies. It is a de facto member without a say, exactly what the UK would be if it “left”.
But the true reason for sticking with the EU is Epicurean. For centuries the European nations have been squabbling among themselves. The cost in terms of human lives is incalculable. Now there is peace, and with peace comes more contentment, even pleasure. Epicurus would have supported the EU enterprise. He might agree to a few tweaks and reforms, but the principle? He would concur with it.
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The idea that some sort of English- speaking union might take the place of the EU for the British is still a gleam in the eye of the UKIP supporters. If you know anything about Anglophone countries you know this is nonsense. Americans, Canadians and so on like visiting quaint old England, but the UK economically and politically has less and less to offer them. In twenty years of living in Washington DC I have only once (from a military man) heard the so-called “special relationship” mentioned. And that was before the Afghan debacle. The US and Canada have their eyes on the rising powers of the Far East. So do Australia and New Zealand, only more so. The UK would leave the EU with no clothes. Done, gone, sorry chaps! Really dumb idea!