LyrArc Article Gist
This opinion in the Economist magazine says Britain's position in the world has never been this low since the Suez crisis in 1956. With its volatile politics and no sense of direction Britain it says has lost its place in the world. During the Suez crisis Anthony Eden's efforts to restore Britain's position in Egypt was torn down by America. The U.S. pursues its own interests first- so much for the special relationship with America. It is only when the three pillars that sustained Britain operate together does Britain have a role- its relationship with America gives it a special place in the EU, and its relationship with the EU gives it a special place with America and acts as a counterbalance to Germany and France inside the EU. The third pillar is Britain's place with the emerging world which is supported by its being a member of the EU, a 500 million people market. The Economist counts as mere deceptions the idea that British industry is handicapped by being in the EU. It says the Mittelstand has done well with the EU market, so has British industry.