Menu
15/12/2003
Progress made at EU summit despite no agreeement: Blair
Prime Minister Tony Blair has said that "progress" has been made at the EU summit, despite talks breaking up without agreement.
Mr Blair said today said that negotiation among all 25 states was "always going to be difficult", and while no formal agreements emerged, there were 82 points where consensus was achieved.
"These included key changes on very important issues for the United Kingdom," he said.
"If this proceeds on the basis outlined by Prime Minister Berlusconi, tax, EU finance, social security and criminal law will all remain the province of the nation-state."
He said it would be a "serious mistake" to allow any British government to remove itself from the negotiations.
"We must continue to shape the future of Europe in ways that reflect our national interest. We can either be on the touchline shouting our criticism, or on the field as an active and successful player," he said.
Mr Blair and the leaders of France, Germany, Sweden and Holland have written a joint letter to the President of the European Commission "emphasising the need for budgetary discipline" in preparations for the new EU-budget.
(gmcg)
Mr Blair said today said that negotiation among all 25 states was "always going to be difficult", and while no formal agreements emerged, there were 82 points where consensus was achieved.
"These included key changes on very important issues for the United Kingdom," he said.
"If this proceeds on the basis outlined by Prime Minister Berlusconi, tax, EU finance, social security and criminal law will all remain the province of the nation-state."
He said it would be a "serious mistake" to allow any British government to remove itself from the negotiations.
"We must continue to shape the future of Europe in ways that reflect our national interest. We can either be on the touchline shouting our criticism, or on the field as an active and successful player," he said.
Mr Blair and the leaders of France, Germany, Sweden and Holland have written a joint letter to the President of the European Commission "emphasising the need for budgetary discipline" in preparations for the new EU-budget.
(gmcg)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
24 October 2005
Blair unveils 'pivotal' education reforms
Prime Minister Tony Blair has unveiled plans to reform Britain’s state schools, describing it as a “pivotal moment” for his government. Speaking ahead of the publication of an Education White Paper tomorrow, Mr Blair said that he wanted to offer “more power and choice for parents”, by freeing schools from the control of local authorities.
Blair unveils 'pivotal' education reforms
Prime Minister Tony Blair has unveiled plans to reform Britain’s state schools, describing it as a “pivotal moment” for his government. Speaking ahead of the publication of an Education White Paper tomorrow, Mr Blair said that he wanted to offer “more power and choice for parents”, by freeing schools from the control of local authorities.
13 May 2003
Short calls on Blair to stand down
The former International Development secretary Clare Short has called on Prime Minister Tony Blair to stand down as she launched another broadside against Number 10.
Short calls on Blair to stand down
The former International Development secretary Clare Short has called on Prime Minister Tony Blair to stand down as she launched another broadside against Number 10.
19 January 2011
Release Of Bush Blair Memos Vetoed
The public disclosure of a number of secret memos between former Prime Minister Blair and ex US President Bush, sent during the run up to the Iraq invasion, has been blocked. The potentially politically volatile memos were determined to be made public as part of the ongoing Chilcot Inquiry into the war by the inquiry chairman, Sir John Chilcot.
Release Of Bush Blair Memos Vetoed
The public disclosure of a number of secret memos between former Prime Minister Blair and ex US President Bush, sent during the run up to the Iraq invasion, has been blocked. The potentially politically volatile memos were determined to be made public as part of the ongoing Chilcot Inquiry into the war by the inquiry chairman, Sir John Chilcot.
20 July 2007
Blair 'pleased' by honours inquiry ruling
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair has said that he is "very pleased" by the news that the cash-for-honours inquiry has ended with no charges being brought.
Blair 'pleased' by honours inquiry ruling
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair has said that he is "very pleased" by the news that the cash-for-honours inquiry has ended with no charges being brought.
27 April 2007
Downing Street denies Blair quit claims
Downing Street has denied newspaper reports that Prime Minister Tony Blair will announce his resignation before next week's local elections in Scotland, England and Wales. It has been expected that Mr Blair would step down as Prime Minister after the elections on May 3.
Downing Street denies Blair quit claims
Downing Street has denied newspaper reports that Prime Minister Tony Blair will announce his resignation before next week's local elections in Scotland, England and Wales. It has been expected that Mr Blair would step down as Prime Minister after the elections on May 3.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
