Vaclav Klaus in London

On October 20 President Klaus, of the Czech Republic, addressed the Bruges Group at the House of Commons. Below are a few extracts from the speech:

In 1989 the slogan was: 'Back to Europe'. I was practically the only one then, and have tried for 15 years since, analytically, to explain the difference between going back to Europe and being part of the European Union; it is very difficult to explain.

The Czech Republic needed more time to enjoy its independence. When I go to Brussels I seem to see Comecon. Everyone there behaves as if the real European issue is the acquiring of more states, more commissioners etc., but these are of secondary importance.

They are not addressing the topics of: loss of cultural dynamism, national values, loss of leadership, and shift to collective responsibility (or irresponsibility) and undermining national identity. I do not think the recent enlargement regrettably will bring about an important change. These countries are already infected by the same virus.

The lack of democratic institutions will become more apparent than before. Majority voting will dominate decision-making, and independence will be prevented. The unpleasant trade-off between participating countries and decision-making will be felt more and more. The soon to be signed Constitution has far reaching effects for individual welfare and nation-states. The new Constitution has nothing to do with resolving the real problems of Europe.

The authors have started with the dubious assumption that it was collectivist in the past and should be again. They believe that Legislation from above is needed because larger markets require more regulation, and the more remote government is from the citizens the better it is. Books could be written about these assumptions but I do not share these ideas. We need unregulated markets. We need New Europe with economic freedom, small and not expanding government; A Europe without pseudo-moralising political correctness... But I am afraid we are very far from all this.

Hat tip to Centre for Research into Post-Communist Economies

(I stupidly forgot my camera and didn't take notes!)