BERLIN: : Defence Secretary Philip Hammond signalled that Britain will not insist on major treaty change during negotiations over the country’s future relationship with Europe.
Philip Hammond has signalled that Britain will not insist on major treaty change during negotiations over the country’s future relationship with Europe.
The Foreign Secretary told the Financial Times that treaty change was not “in itself” a political goal for the British government, adding: “For the vast majority of the British people the important thing is where we end up, the outcome.”
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Earlier this week, David Cameron’s hopes for a far-reaching overhaul of Britain’s relationship with the EU were dealt a setback when Germany said it would not be rushed into changing the bloc’s treaties to meet UK demands.
Mr Hammond’s comments suggest the government is considering creative legal ways to achieve reform, without the need for lengthy treaty negotiations.
Asked whether treaty change should form part of the talks, Mr Hammond said: “That is how I want this process to end up: a good package of reforms; a ‘yes’ vote; and a step change in the way the relationship works, with Britain being really engaged and a loud voice in the union.”
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Mr Hammond also echoed Bank of England Governor Mark Carney’s call for a speedy resolution of the European question, calling for a “fast” settlement.
His comments will now raise expectations of a possible vote in 2016.
