Atlantic Community:Global Must Read Article "Gordon Brown Praises the EU"

In a speech before business leaders, UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown stressed the need for the UK to remain engaged with the EU, in order to push for "reforms that are essential for Europe's, and Britain's, economic future." Brown, delivering a very pro-European note ahead of a political struggle for ratification of the Lisbon Treaty, rejected calls by the opposition Tories to put the treaty to a public vote. Rather, he warned against questioning UK membership of the EU, praising its benefits for UK businesses. Furthermore, the recent financial turbulences seemingly have had a deep impact on Brown, who is scheduled to meet with several European leaders to discuss responses to the credit crisis. Speech on business priorities for a 'Global Europe' January 14, 2008 BBC News, January 14, 2008