Why the EU is weak – and condemned to long-term decline

In the short term, the EU may be able to avoid the worst of the US-led credit crunch and economic downturn, says Simon Nixon. But bureaucracy and security issues are weakening the Union.

I went to hear Gordon Brown speak earlier this week. He was appearing at a gathering of business people and Westminster-types to discuss Britain and the EU.

The Prime Minister's appearance was significant, one of the organisers whispered in my ear, because it was the first time he had really come off the fence and made a positive case for the EU after years of prevarication.

Subscribe to MoneyWeek

Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Get 6 issues free
https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/mw70aro6gl1676370748.jpg

Sign up to Money Morning

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Sign up
Simon Nixon

Simon is the chief leader writer and columnist at The Times and previous to that, he was at The Wall Street Journal for 9 years as the chief European commentator. Simon also wrote for Reuters Breakingviews as the Executive Editor earlier in his career. Simon covers personal finance topics such as property, the economy and other areas for example stockmarkets and funds.