Author Archives: Ben Jones

Ben Jones

Opinion: Nick v Nigel – Cheer up Liberal Democrats (and other pro-Europeans)

By Ben Jones | Sat 5th April 2014 - 9:59 am

Farage cleggSome Liberal Democrats, and other pro-Europeans, seem to be rather down about the outcome of the Nick v Nigel debate. Certainly it is depressing to see your fellow citizens support a man who professes admiration for Vladimir Putin. But Nick Clegg really was up against first-class populism on Wednesday night. Farage dropped every conceivable fear or concern about the modern world at the door of the European Union. Would you like an end to war, waste, politicians, people speaking foreign on the train and every problem the outside world bothers …

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Posted in Europe / International and Op-eds | Tagged and | 37 Comments
Ben Jones

Opinion: The Liberal Democrats must lead re-engagement with Europe

By Ben Jones | Fri 16th December 2011 - 2:28 pm

Who killed the EU treaty? Was it pre-meditated murder or manslaughter? Some say David Cameron wielded the knife. It is suggested that he went to Brussels with every intention of wrecking the treaty. It was politically impossible for him to deliver his party, regardless of concessions. On this charge, the Prime Minister is either hero or villain, depending on which side you are on.

For others, the crime is one of gross negligence. The list of failings is long and painful; the side-lining of diplomats in the Foreign Office in favour of Treasury officials, a 4am “take it or leave it”

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Posted in Op-eds | Tagged , and | 8 Comments
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