"...and British membership is good for Europe" said the British Prime Minister today (14 January 2008) when addressing an audience of senior business leaders in London. Mr Brown considers that the completion of the Lisbon treaty means there is now an opportunity to move on to address the challenges that matter most to Europe's citizens: stability, growth, competitiveness and jobs.
He went on to say: "at this time of global economic uncertainty, we should not be throwing into question -as some would - the stability of our relationship with Europe and even our future membership of the European Union --- risking trade, business and jobs. Indeed, I strongly believe that rather than retreating to the sidelines we must remain fully engaged in Europe so we can push forward the reforms that are essential for Europe's, and Britain's, economic future."
"The EU is key to the success of business in the UK:
- Europe accounts for nearly 60 per cent of our trade;
- 700,000 British companies have trading ties to Europe;
- And 3.5 million British jobs depend upon Europe.
And even in the face of rapid globalisation, our trade with Europe continues to rise, meaning Europe is as important to the future of Britain than ever."
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