Blair on Reforming the EU

[Chris Burford]

Blair puts loyalty to capitalism above shows of loyalty to democracy. But
within that, I suggest it is arguable that he does expect European
capitalism to be socially accountable.

Chris Burford

London


>From the Guardian: 
>>>>
The Prime Minister appeared more amused than angry mid-week when Mr Hague
and Mr Major endorsed a reform proposal on Europe launched in the Commons
the previous day by Tony Benn. Why not start greater democratisation at
home, Mr Benn suggested, and allow MPs to interrogate and vote for
Britain's two new commissioners in American-style confirmation hearings?

Mr Blair declined. In his own reform agenda the role of MPs and MEPs is
quite modest. His instincts lie more with streamlining the Commission's
functions - providing it with a 'mission statement' and with making it both
more transparent and accountable.