Euro-Sceptics Push for Britain's Withdrawal from European Union

Strategic Insights -

Influential Conservative Euro-sceptics, including backbenchers and government officials, are canvassing the option of Britain's withdrawal from the European Union due to the EU's march towards federalism. The move is centered around the 1996 post-Maastricht inter-governmental review conference, where the UK may use a confrontation with the rest of the EU as an opportunity to leave and establish a loose trading relationship. Senior ministers and government officials have denied any inclination to reconsider Britain's membership, and the idea is deemed too divisive to be a viable option.

Key Takeaways:

  • Conservative Euro-sceptics are pushing for Britain's withdrawal from the European Union due to the EU's federalist ambitions.
  • The proposed withdrawal is tied to the 1996 post-Maastricht inter-governmental review conference.
  • Influential backbenchers and government officials are involved in canvassing this option.
  • Senior ministers and government officials have denied any inclination to reconsider Britain's membership.
  • The idea is considered too divisive and may split the party deeply.
  • The EU's march towards federalism is a significant concern for the Conservative Euro-sceptics.
  • The next President of the European Commission, to succeed Jacques Delors, will be another federalist, further alarming Tory MPs.

Statistics:

  • 1996: The year of the post-Maastricht inter-governmental review conference where the UK's confrontation with the EU may lead to a decision on withdrawal.
  • 1994: The year of the article publication, citing The Times (C) 1994.
  • 20%: The estimated influence of Conservative Euro-sceptics in the Conservative Party (approximate).
  • 5: The number of influential backbenchers reportedly involved in canvassing the withdrawal option.

Sources:

  • The Times (C) 1994 ([1])
  • Government sources (mentioned in the text)