Are the EU and Europe the same thing?
The European Union is not a state, but a unique partnership between European countries, known as Member States. Together they cover much of the European continent. Citizens of the EU Member States are also citizens of the European Union. The EU is currently made up of 27 countries.
Is Britain in EU?
The UK is the first and so far only member state to have left the EU, after 47 years of having been a part of the union — the EU and its predecessor the European Communities (EC), which included the European Economic Community — since 1 January 1973.
What is the relationship between the UK and the EU?
Britain and the EU: A long and rocky relationship. Read more about sharing. The United Kingdom’s relationship with the EU – or, in political parlance, “Europe” – has long been one of the most divisive, emotive issues in British politics.
Why is the European Union so important to the UK?
Europe is Britain’s most important export market and its biggest source of foreign investment, and membership in the bloc has helped London cement its position as a global financial center. An announcement, or at least a threat, from a major business to leave Britain because of Brexit is a regular occurrence.
Can Britain have more influence in Europe than we think?
Fortunately, Britain can have more influence in Europe than we often think. Hard won experience shows that we cannot be marginalised in today’s EU unless, by design or neglect, we do so ourselves.
Can We aim at anything less than the Union of Europe?
“We cannot aim at anything less than the Union of Europe as a whole, and we look forward with confidence to the day when that Union will be achieved.” Postwar efforts at European reconciliation included the setting up of the European Steel and Coal Community, a forerunner to the EU. Britain was not a member.