The Channel is wider than the Atlantic

The Channel is wider than the Atlantic

27 Feb 2003

Are we at heart European, or does Britain's Anglo-Saxon inheritance bind us more closely to the United States? The answer has a major bearing on almost every issue of policy - from attitudes to the welfare state to siding with Washington over Iraq.

The panel debate the motion: The Channel is wider than the Atlantic. Chaired by Eric Pooley.

Arguing for the motion are John Redwood, Frederic Raphael and Michael Gove.

John Redwood begins the defence with the claim that Britain is closer to the US than Europe because of shared origins, values and economic interests.

Frederic Raphael suggests that, while we should be able to forget history, Britain’s current position in the world and its relationships are heavily influenced by past events.

Michael Gove argues that physical proximity is not the same as closeness, which is about shared history and emotion. The shared history of the US and Britain is stronger and more durable.

Arguing against the motion are Timothy Garton Ash, Charles Grant and Brigitte Granville.

Timothy Garton Ash argues that behind the motion is an ideological, wilful and extremist denial of the obvious reality that Britain is as intimately tied to Europe as the US.

Charles Grant argues that while it is true that Britain is closer to the US in terms of intelligence and military operations, in most things Britain is closer to Europe.

Brigitte Granville explains that there are strong similarities which lead Blair and Chirac to opposite practical conclusions in terms of foreign policy. Both wish to preserve the strategic interests of their respective countries.

First vote: 190 For, 73 Against, 82 Don't know

Final vote: 188 For, 115 Against, 26 Don't know

The motion is carried by 73 votes.