Comment on Chapter 6

It is important to begin this comment by welcoming this timely chapter, which has drawn attention to the effect of interdependence of countries on welfare systems. As Schneider points out. this issue is of particular relevance for the Member States, and would-be Member States, of the European Union. Speaking as a representative of the UK at this conference, I can see all too well the problems that arise when politicians, inadvertently or otherwise, fail to recognize the existence of a logic of integration within the European Community that is capable of generating its own momentum. Just as the Single European Market necessarily implies some sort of European monetary union, so these two lead on to some sort of European fiscal union. Hence, il N of vital importance that tins issue is the subject of relevant and useful debate now, before the momentum for fiscal union gathers pace.