The British Veto in the European Council: Political and Policy Consequences

The commentary discusses the political and policy consequences of the British veto in the European Council. The author argues that David Cameron's decision to veto the proposed EU Treaty changes was largely due to pressures from within his own party. It has reinforced his position within the Tory party and boosted his party's position in the polls. And even though the decision undermines the cohesion of Tory-Lib Dem cooperation, diverging positions on the issue are not likely to endanger the endurance of the coalition. According to the author, the coalition government will remain committed to full EU membership, although the pressure on the prime minister to increase Britain's independence from the EU will grow.

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