Proponents of Brexit argue that by leaving the European Union, the UK will win back a long-lost and precious commodity: pure, undiluted sovereignty. Yet in a globalised economy, Britain’s sovereignty and ability to project power globally is strengthened by EU membership.
I sit on the Chinese premier’s Global CEO Council and I know that China takes the UK more seriously as part of the EU. President Obama is expected to repeat his support for membership on Thursday.
In today’s competitive world, being in the EU is the UK’s best chance to influence global debates. To go it alone now, in pursuit of imagined national sovereignty, would render Britain powerless over decisions on issues that matter, such as trade, climate change and energy security.
Membership secures