Blair government to accept EU foreign minister
In a dramatic change of strategy the UK is set to agree plans for an EU foreign minister in an attempt to fence-off integration moves on other key issues such as taxation.
According to a report in the Independent, the UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has ordered his foreign minister, Jack Straw, to adopt a more conciliatory position on all but a handful of 'no-go' areas.
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Tax, social security and defence are seen as so-called ‘red line’ issues where London must retain control.
The move may also see the UK agreeing to scrap the national veto in all but the most sensitive areas.
It is also likely to spark a fresh debate on the acceptance of majority voting in the area of foreign policy, a move that proponents say would significantly speed up the Union’s ability to react to world events.
Mr Straw and Peter Hain, the government’s representative on the Convention, have been accused of playing into the hands of Euro-sceptics by making there opposition known to every amendment, no matter the importance.
Following this month’s euro announcement - widely regarded as a fudge - and Mr Blair’s decision not to promote the Europe Minister to a cabinet position, the prime minister is keen to stress his euro credentials.