Off the Touchline

After years of hesitation, tentative probes and endless talks all over Europe. Britain last week decided to take the big step and apply anew for membership in the six-nation Common Market. This means that Europe, and particularly Charles de Gaulle (who blackballed Britain's first application in 1963), must in turn decide whether to expand the Continental economic and trade community to seven members--and possibly to even ten or twelve, since Britain's fellow members in the European Free Trade Association are almost certain to try to follow.

Prime Minister Harold Wilson made his intentions clear at a caucus of Parliament's Labor Party members. "I believe," he said, "that Europe could be on the verge of a great move forward in political unity and that we can--indeed we must--play a part in it. When something is at stake of this degree of importance, the role of Britain is on the field and not on the touchline,* casting praise, blame or bottles."

The Big Hurdle. Wilson admitted that there would be problems and sacrifices. Britain's cost of living would jump, but Wilson claimed that the rise would be only an acceptable 2% to 3 1/2%. In answer to concern that the country's balance of payments would suffer because of new investments in Europe, Wilson insisted that foreign investment in Britain would more than make up the difference. As for the Common Market's high-price agricultural policy, he simply said that Britain would have to come to terms with it.

Next day. Foreign Minister George Brown met in London with EFTA ministers, who endorsed Britain's bid. This week Wilson will introduce a bill in Commons proposing formal application. The bill is certain to carry.

The vote of Common Market members is less certain. De Gaulle is still opposed but because of declining popularity at home, would like to avoid using his veto again if he can. Even so, approval of Britain's entry is rated no more than a 50-50 chance. No one recognizes this more than Wilson. "If we do not succeed--through the decisions of others, not of ourselves--we shall not whine about it," he said. "We ask no favors. Our negotiations will be based on what we can contribute."

A well-publicized meeting of leaders of the Common Market countries will take place in Rome some time this month to mark the tenth anniversary of the Treaty of Rome. Charles de Gaulle will be there. And, though De Gaulle has insisted that Britain's Common Market bid not be placed on the agenda, it will obviously be the main topic of talk.

This file is automatically generated by a robot program, so reader's discretion is required.