London reveals new alternative to EU army plans
By Marit Ruuda
The UK has attacked what it sees as French attempts to create an EU defence force outside Nato by proposing an alternative plan according to The Times.
According to the daily, the UK wants to create an EU military "planning cell" to strengthen Europe's defence capability, but one based in Nato's military headquarters.
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They hope the unit’s placement would help to avoid undermining Nato.
In April France, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg proposed the creation of an independent European headquarters to command military operations. London strongly opposed the idea.
According to The Times, Britain has already circulated its new rival plan to all EU member states including the 10 enlargement countries. The plan is called "Food For Thought".
Italy, Spain and Ireland are likely to support British plan.