Brussels, 25/08/2014 (Agence Europe) - The British prime minister, David Cameron, is reported to be getting ready to make Brussels more specific threats over the United Kingdom leaving the European Union, reported The Sunday Times on Sunday 24 August. The newspaper explains that Cameron is believed to be prepared to stop supporting any efforts to keep his country in the EU unless he secures the in-depth reforms he is calling for. Although it was denied by a Downing Street spokesperson, this latest threat would take the form of a significant toughening of the prime minister's stance, the newspaper explains, despite the fact that Cameron has always spoken out in favour of his country staying in the EU, but subject to the condition of changes in the relationship between London and Brussels. The prime minister has pledged to call a referendum on this relationship in 2017, if he wins the general elections to be held in 2015. This tougher stance started with the appointment of Jean-Claude Juncker to lead the European Commission at the end of June, when Cameron, who steadfastly opposed him, warned the other European leaders that they would come to “regret” their choice and that it made it harder for the UK to stay in the Union.
Cameron is campaigning ahead of his referendum on bringing competences back to the United Kingdom and on restrictions to the freedom of movement, specifically the fact that European migrants coming to live in the UK are entitled to claim benefits. (SP)