Former European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker has called for the European Union to have its own army, citing concerns over the bloc’s reliance on the US and the changing nature of warfare in Europe.
In an interview with Andrew Marr on LBC, Mr Juncker emphasised the need for a strong European pillar in the NATO alliance and the need to reorganise in the face of Russian aggression.
However, Mr Juncker also addressed the issue of freedom of movement, calling on the UK to reintroduce it with the EU despite Brexit.
He claimed to have negotiated an arrangement with former UK Prime Minister David Cameron on the issue, but said that it was not defended by the British government during the referendum campaign.
Mr Juncker praised the recent deal struck between the UK and the EU over Northern Ireland, calling it a “real breakthrough” and “diplomacy at its best”.
However, he suggested that the deal is better for the EU than some in Britain are admitting, pointing out that the European Court of Justice has been reconfirmed in its role as an arbiter when it comes to internal market questions concerning Northern Ireland.
Overall, Mr Juncker stressed the importance of the relationship between the UK and the EU going forward, saying that there is “no room for unfriendly manoeuvres” and emphasising the historical ties between the two entities.
However, he ruled out the possibility of the UK rejoining the EU in the future, stating that he did not see “any chance whatsoever” of it happening.
Juncker has a Damd cheek to try to get the UK to reintroduce free movement for Foreigners to OUR Country we have enough trouble with the Hordes coming over the Damd Channel, So Juncker can go and take a Hike, we Don’t want this anymore.