So I was speaking to an Italian recruitment agent yesterday.

[scooterscot]

We hate the EU, not Europe.

That message can be touted until the cows come home. Only the brexiters recognise this. For the majority if Europeans, Europe = EU. The idea the UK can enjoy the same relationship outside the EU with Europeans is misguided.

[tomtomagain]

Mainland Europeans view the EU as primarily away to prevent their countries being destroyed as in the wars of 1914-1918 and 1939 - 1945.

For them it is primarily a way to ensure that Germany and France co-exist in peace.

For the UK the EU has primarily been seen as a economic union and holiday destination.

[PurpleGorilla]

That message can be touted until the cows come home. Only the brexiters recognise this. For the majority if Europeans, Europe = EU. The idea the UK can enjoy the same relationship outside the EU with Europeans is misguided.

If Britain leaves the EU it will still be part of Europe!

So are the Swiss European?

[FatLazyContractor]

In Italy like. You know they're all the same, just with a different accent. Later in the conversation I asked about this referendum nonsense.

"You know I think it would be very sad if the UK left the EU. The impact on the UK would be the same to the EU, economic disaster. But I understand they have to make their own choice. For me, the EU has generally been taking the right direction to the benefit of all, I really don't understand why it is hated so much in the UK"

I've heard this before, from a German and a Danish fellow I was working with recently. The common thing that strikes me between them all is how far apart we stand from our European neighbours. Even without the EU our neighbours would look at us somewhat differently. There's no doubt of that in my head. Every minute this referendum nonsense stays afloat, damage is being done.

The question is, was it a lass you were talking to?

[scooterscot]

If Britain leaves the EU it will still be part of Europe!

Only in your head. The UK is closer to the the US than the EU. We adopt Americanisms quicker than the yanks can come up with them.

[FatLazyContractor]

If Britain leaves the EU it will still be part of Europe!

So are the Swiss European?

They are, but would you pay premium price for a Swiss hooker?

[scooterscot]

The question is, was it a lass you were talking to?

Not only that but I have a 'beautiful' accent, apparently.

My bonnie lassie.

[scooterscot]

For the UK the EU has primarily been seen as a economic union and holiday destination.

Our loss.

[vetran]

That message can be touted until the cows come home. Only the brexiters recognise this. For the majority if Europeans, Europe = EU.

The idea the UK would the same relationship outside the EU with Europeans is misguided because the EU is small minded and wants to punish us for having the audacity to leave the EUSSR.

FTFY

[vetran]

Our loss.

WHY?