EU Referendum

What do people think about that then... in or out? 

Edited by pondmonkey - 23 Jan 13 at 9:29am

GRF as is sometimes the case, "there's a lot in what you say"...

Originally posted by iGRF Out, being part of a Federal United States of Europe was never supposed to be the deal.

Time often twists our memory, but I seem to recall that Ted Heath, who took us into the Common Market, always said that the ultimate aim was for a single European State, but that this would take decades to achieve. It was the one reason I voted NO in the 1975 referendum, but of course the public said YES and we stayed in, it was the first time I was able to vote, and all too long ago.

Today there are many issues I believe quite strongly are wrong, not only with our contribution to Europe, but also in the attitude taken by many over the consequences of leaving.
Inevitably there would be a short term cost on leaving the EU, but long term the UK would survive and prosper, there are many and quite varied arguments that hold water and clearly show they need us more than we need them, think of them what you wish, but don't underestimate the power and strength of "The City" it is highly influential worldwide and would likely not suffer from leaving the EU.

I do buy the benefits of tax free borders, but there are negatives too, and it would be a long discussion to open here.

Companies will make headlines saying they will pull out of the UK if we are not part of Europe, but to be honest its all talk and will never happen, at least not enough for us to feel the effects, as major players will not sacrifice this market, and don't forget the government can then make it pretty appealing to stay.

Overall I don't think its a very easy decision at the moment, and to make it clear, I work for a major German mulitnational.

Originally posted by pondmonkey Surely someone, somewhere needs to give our kids a chance of earning a living first?

Not long ago I was trying to recruit software developers in London. I got applications from half the countries in Europe but applications from Brits were rarer than hens teeth. I've worked with young Brits with postgrad qualifications in IT, lovely kids, keen, anxious to please but they could do nothing. Even given the time and opportunity to develop the skills. Even when briefed, supported, encouraged and cajoled. It was a very depressing experience. I don't know what's wrong with our education system but something the hell is.

I don't buy it.