thought this analysis of interdependence was exceptionally well argued and thought provoking. Where I disagree - and it is a small point - is in the conclusion that a new border is being established - and that this is counter to the direction of European liberalism. Id argue with Sam that the border is a very old border indeed, and that it has never gone away - despite the unions of crowns and parliaments. It has never stopped being the border of two distinct jurisdictions, or of cultural identity. Modern European liberalism favours subsidiarity, that ugly word for powers being kept as close to the individual as possible. The classic liberals described it as Home Rule and it endures today as what Westminster politicians glibly describe as an equal partnership of nations. It is here that Sam and I divide and choose slightly different paths to federalism. He believes it can be achieved within the UK. I believe that it can be better achieved inside the European Union. What is true though is that if there is a No vote, it is good to know that well both still be arguing passionately for a federal and democratic organisation of our government.
Posted on: Sat, 30 Aug 2014 12:54:15 +0000
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