Letter from London: Britain in Europe—Half-hearted and Ambivalent Forever?
S. J. D. Green
Last May, British Prime Minister Tony Blair traveled to the now sleepy city of Aachen, nestling on Dutch-German border close Belgium. He went there receive, in historic capital Carolingian Empire, appropriately named Charlemagne Prize for services latest project European integration. To be sure, Mr. Blair's contribution twentieth-century version United Christendom has been date rather more piecemeal (one might also add peaceful) than great medieval emperor's. More pointedly still, his prize marked no major change Britain's contemporary relations with continental Europe. In fact, it conferred additional powers, just a touch kudos and lot money, himself. It was not even without recent precedent. Sir Edward Heath, surely enemies-perhaps especially enemies-an altogether worthy recipient award, had duly honored nearly two decades before. Only most optimistically disposed can really believe that one else, suitably elevated seemingly deserving, will singled out such praise near future. But, ever polite Scotch gentleman perhaps enthusiastic about moment, occasion by saluting benefactors mean style. For he chose this make if
Antioch Review