Thatcher seeks alternatives to full EU membership
By Lisbeth Kirk
The time has come for Britain to seek alternatives to full membership of the European Union, Baroness Thatcher argues in her new book Statecraft. Lady Thatcher urges an incoming Conservative government to seek fundamental renegotiation of Britain’s terms of EU membership. "The objectives would be a withdrawal from the CAP, an end to our adherence to the common fisheries policy, withdrawal from all the entanglements of a common foreign and security policy and a reassertion of control of our trade policy," she argues in the book.
No departure from the EU
Lady Thatcher insists that such a policy need not result in British departure from the EU, which "needs us more than we need them". Instead, she argues that Britain's status as the world's fourth largest economy, combined with its strategic importance and strong links with Europe, means that the EU "will need co-operative relations with Britain."
Looks to the alternatives
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Lady Thatcher is concerned that the current situation could lead to the establishment of two rival trading blocks - the EU and Nafta - that become increasingly protectionist. She argues, in what is described as her swan-song book, passionately for Britain to look to the US as its partner in most diplomatic issues, describing it as the "essential" relationship for Britain.
Politicians must look for alternatives to continued EU membership, she argues. These include Britain opting out of the wider EU and seeking membership only of a European economic free trade area, and joining the North American Free Trade Agreement.
Tory leader reads with interest
Lady Thatcher's comments may embarrass Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith who has tried to play down the Europe debate. As many as 30 Tory MPs would probably privately support her line.
Mr Duncan Smith's spokesman said she had done the party the courtesy of sending an advance copy of the book which would be read with interest.