Leader of the Opposition Simon Busuttil believes that the EU should not exert pressure on the British government to kick start the process which will eventually lead to the UK's exit from the European Union.

Speaking to The Malta Independent before an important summit of the European People's Party, which is the largest political in the European Parliament, Dr Busuttil said that he intends to protect Malta's national interest.

The Brexit Referendum has rattled the EU institutions and hijacked today's EPP summit. The EU is still waiting for the UK to invoke article 50 of the Treaty of the European under which the exit process can then take off.

Dr Busuttil said that the referendum vote means that the UK will be leaving the European Union and that the result must be respected, but there should be no hurry.

"This is a process which the UK needs to undertake, it is their responsibility and they must be allowed to take their time. Even because when you allow for more breathing space, the public has more time to reflect on the decision that was taken and on the consequences of this decision."

The PN leader said that the consequences, especially to the UK, are huge, "but we are here to protect Malta's national interest."

In his comments, Dr Busuttil cautioned politicians to avoid speaking in a populist manner in a reaction to what is happening in the UK and Brussels.  

Heads of States and Leaders of the Opposition who are members of the EPP have gathered in Brussels to discuss Brexit and to prepare for the Council meeting which will be taking place this afternoon. This will be the first Council meeting since the referendum.  

Speaking to journalists after the EPP meeting, Dr Busuttil said that the lengthy meeting was characterised by an expression of shock from various leaders.

“Those present expressed their opinion and I cannot say that everyone expressed the same view. However, there is one very important thing which all EPP members agree upon, that the reaction on UK’s exit has to be taken calmly but in a concise manner.”

Dr Busuttil said there needs to be a clam, intelligent reaction to the issue which has sent shock waves throughout the EU institutions in Brussels.

 

“There is also an agreement on the fact that being in favour of the EU, means that you are in favour of one’s national state. It is in everyone’s national interest to have a united Europe.”

Photo: Roberto Runza