NationStates Jolt Archive

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))

whoever we join, politically Britain is fucked... Europe (namely Germany & France) want to control us as a superstate and America is a superstate so either way, we lose our indepentant power and everything that makes Britain, Britain
I reckon we should start colonizing and become an Empire again...
Opinions welcome but don't be a sod about it

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

Ok, Lets Get Started.

1) In my opinion i think i would prefer Britain to join Europe rather than the U.S (no offence to the U.S), but personally i believe that we have so much history, and i think it would be an economically sound (although i dont know much about economics), although i am against the Euro in Britain.

2) Thats a tough one, not really, its more the British Hating the French :D. Of course your going to have people in every country hating another country, but to be honest i'd have to say Britain hates France more than France hates Britain. We seem to be going through a phase that some call "Yob culture", where we hate everyone and are frankly drunken Yobs :D.

3) That depends, if you live in the city i.e London it is like any other city in the world, busy and very modernised, but if you go out into the country sure you will find alot of small villages with cottages and thatched roofs etc.
So it depends on where you are looking at Britain.

4) I suppose we all get on fine, you will find some people spit on the ground when the cross the border into another country :D, like when the English go into wales, and in parts of scotland they will have signs that say "Death to the English" but we get on well mostly, and no there is no threat of Invasion from Scotland, as we all have the same Army.

5) I dont really understand what you mean by that, so ill say no.

6) Yes, alot of people want to scrap the Monarchy, it is utterly useless. Although it brings in alot of tourism, they are useless and they sponge off the tax payer earning millions for little to no reason.

7) I don't think we Interfere enough, we dont really seem to meddle with other nations affaires, (apart from of course The war on terror).

8) I think we support the U.S a little too much, of course we thank America for its help in WW2, but i think we are "sucking up" a bit too much, i'd like to see Britain side with Europe more. I believe we have a mutual respect, we are not particually afraid of America.

(Do not think i'm fully pro-europe, i love America/Americans (apart from your government) and i think it is a great country.)

- wwa

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.
1) Why would Britain not join Europe?
2)Yes the French really hate the English, and the English hate them right back.
3)Some of it is, and some of it is just as ugly as the US.
4)The British get along with each other by the knowledge that England will blow the living shit out of anyone who dares leave, so no, they don't have to worry about the Scottish, because England could blow Scotland off of the map if it wanted to.
5) No, they are a world power, and the US's only real ally now.
6)Yes. Queen Elizabeth has about as much power as George Bush does in America.
7)Yes, because they helped President Bush invade a non-threat to satisfy Dubya's whim. Where would you draw the line?
8)Definitely too much, but it is because Tony Blair is an idiot, and not because America is powerful.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?

A: Britain is more or less the US's lap dag. The basic view amongst the poplulation of Britain right now is that they do not wish to join the EU, or the silly notion of joining the US, but rather independent. Britain used to have a strong industry before certain governments destroyed it.
Britain could now be called the Satellitle state of America.


2) Do the french REALLY hate the english? A: No, the English hate the French, the French can appear to be snobby. Goes back to De Gualle's contionous 'Non' veto whenever Britain tried to join the EU (Common Market)

The French don't hate us, but think we are all louts or snobs and are out to be the trogan horse for Anerica in Europe.


3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.

No on the whole. Miserable is a better word, moan alot too. (And rightly too) Quaint people do exist, but so do the opposite.


4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?

A: No the Scottish need to worry about the English invading. (Just Kidding)

Scotland is in the process of devolution, recieving it's own government, with restrictions imposed. The Scots are unhappy with what has turned into a sham. Scots don't like the English, and vice versa. A bit like the US and Canada

5) Is Britain insignificant?

On the world stage? Seeing as we are seen as the US's best friend in Europe and a puppet to the US, no.


6) Is the monarchy insignificant?


A: Yes, to many people.

7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?

They should draw the line at interfering in other countriy's affairs. Full stop.

8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Britain's government sees America as the sole world superpower as it is, thus sides with America, sucks up to America because it is viewed best not to get on the wrong side a single inch of America. The British people are fed up with it. The US scares anybody. No mutual respect at all. US government views Britain as something to be used and abused as something inferior.

I would rather Britain maintained her independence and joined neither Europe (we should leave the EU asap) or the US (no offence but u were our colony, so we aren't about 2 become a colony of yours).

I agree that we should start colonising again.

Yay for the empire

(Do not think i'm fully pro-europe, i love America/Americans (apart from your government) and i think it is a great country.)

- wwa[/QUOTE]
Americans love America apart from our government, too. :D

I am not going to go into elaborate details, but I live in England and would like to say a few things with regard to the questions.

Firstly, think of the future. At the moment, the globe is tending towards superpowers made of many countries, or states. Presently we have the USA, a powerful conglomerate of states, and China, a very large country that people seem to be forgetting about. Of course, in the middle, there is the middle-east, a place that seems to, as a whole, hate western society and Europe.

Thats right, Europe is a superpower in the making, and in my opinion the best option both politically and economically. It is an inevitability that Europe will become, effectively, a United States of Europe, with a president and all that (or whatever). Britain should not turn its nose up at being involved in this prospect just because it shares a language with people far west. That is what sways people to want to side (or should I say suicide) with America despite its almost infitesimal short-comings in terms of self-righteousness and fundamentalism.

Britain is significant, because of its uniqueness, and to be allied to Britain is a good thing in any countries concern. I would go as far as to say, it is probably one of the best countrues to live in at the moment. I used to want to move to America but now can't stand to see the flag.

The fact that we have a monarchy is significant, as it changes the way our politics actually work. Unlike other countries, our acts are not actually acts, they are just other laws with the same value as any other law. This has pros and cons - the biggest con being the fact that our Anti-terrorism "Act" cancels out our Human Rights "Act", but I won't go into detail.

Britain should avoid taking sides, despite what I have said, seeking instead the most right position. We should have ruined our "friendship" with America by refusing to go to war with Iraq, I would go as far to say that Britain is powerful enough to do that despite its size. That said, I was all for the war, believing the lies, and find myself wanting a united states of Europe, where more people are involved in such decisions, where real democacy is nearly found.

I could go on and on.

Just remember that we don't suck up to America, at least not as a nation (Tony might). The "mutual respect" as entirely down to the sharing of language. If America had German as its main language, I doubt Bush would have sounded as convincing to Tony, and would have scared us as a people with his talk of war. No offence to any Germans out there, any other language will do.

So there you go, my take.

Briatin is England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, I thought...

Britain is England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

The UNITED KINGDOM is England, Scotland, Wales and NORTHERN Ireland.

I never really understood why this was, i just accept that it is.

1) I would prefer for Britain to remain dignifiedly neutral in the whole messy business. However that's not altogether likely, so I would say we should ally with Europe, so to speak. I make no apology for it; we have a lot in common with the U.S. but in my view we have more in common with Europe, and have merely buried it beneath recent history.

2) Some of them; then again, some of the British hate the French. Most Britishers don't really dislike the French all that much; it's more a sort of national ritual, the collective equivalent of Americans saying the pledge of allegiance every morning at school. We can't hate them that much, simply because we twice fought on their side in the two World Wars.

3) Depends where you are. I'm in manchester, a strange mix of the old and the new. You can, yes, still see the now silent red-bricked chimneys of the factories that once made this nation the Workshop of the World, and the terraced houses that three generations ago resounded to the noise of men going to work in the factories; you can also see vast amounts of steel and smoked glass where Salford Quays used to be, on the Ship Canal. There's really a lot of history in Britain, and some of it may be "quaint" to foreigners; to me it's just a great heritage.

4) You always get some people who won't like things as they are and we will always give something. Like the fact that we gave Scotland and Wales their own Parliament (God only knows why - and before anyone goes off on one, I'm half-Welsh, OK?) and so on. But apart from nationalists in all four nations, I think internal relations are good. We're like any other nation: we squabble a lot when there's nothing important going on, but when the time comes, we get stuck in together.

5) That's a painful question to answer. When you have been the greatest Empire on Earth, when you have had the finest Navy the world has ever seen, when you have been the engine that powered the globe for 100 years, then yes, anything after that is insignificant. But objectively? No, I don't think we are. If we were, our voice would not be listened to in world affairs. Perhaps it's just the echoes of the past that are keeping us prominent, but I don't think so. I think Britain has something that makes people listen, though for the life of me I can't place it.

6) Depends. In political terms, yes; in financial terms, no.

7) You don't know the half of it. Back in the day, we interfered whenevr some tin-pot little dictator came along. Of course, back then we could just send around a gunboat to sort him out. But seriously, I don't think we do. OK, Iraq was a cock-up. But frankly, the only reason I was angry was that we were lied to. If Bush and Blair had said "we are going in because Saddam is a ruthless murderous little dictator sitting on a vital resource, and in the loing run it will probably benefit both parties if we kick him out," then I would have been for it. But all the WMD rubbish angered me, since it was patently false.

8) I would say we do suck up to America too much; but then, Britain and America have a very novel relationship. A lot of Americans are British, to put it simply; you've all just gone off on a vewry long holiday and picked up an odd accent en route :).

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
Well, if we joined the US Britain would be able to weild considerable power within it.
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
No, the French get a bit annoyed with English tourists. It is the Parisians they hate.
But we call them the Frogs, and they call us Roast Beef, and everyone is happy
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
Yes, we're a land of fairies and elves rememeber ;)
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?
1. Wales is technically not a nation in its own right, it is part of England because England conquered it in the 13th Century, which is why the Welsh flag doesn't feature on the Union Flag.
2. It is just Northern Ireland, may be nit picking but I know a few Irish men who'd consider that insulting.
3. There is a bit of regional rivalry, but for the most part it is innocent and not malicious.

Depends. TB certainly is quite respected around the world (even though he isn't here), and because of History we are not a country where people think "Where the Hell is that?" (Like Eritrea, no offence to Eritreans I know where you are).
[quote]6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
No, it is nearly everywhere. So much so, that in an arguement I had about the monarchy with a friend, he claimed we should keep them because otherwise we would have to take their crests off the cereal boxs.
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?Depends on country to country. But obn the whole I think that a happy medium is kept.
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?
This goes way back to start of the Special Relationship, which, if anything, was streangthened by De Gaulles bloodymindedness when it came to trying to join the EEC. Europes isolating of Britian (France led), moved Britain closer to the US.
However, I think that the "Special Relationship" requires us to say "How high" when America says "Jump."
And I think Blair is too close too Bush (with Clinton it was understandable, they both had close ideological links.)

Just a few thoughts (alot has been typed whilst I've been making these comments though in response to the first questions)

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?

I personally would prefer Britain to be neither, I mean there will always be people that say you must join this superstate or that in order to stay with it and important but at the moment we are fine, we can be the go between of the USA and EU in trading.

2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?

No, this is just friendly rivalry. Sure I'm not keen myself, but they call the English Roast Beefs. They aren't meant unkindly really :)

3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.

Look if some tourists want to call Britain quaint and spend their cash here, then that's fine. Mostly the USA call us this, but that is partly due to our monarchy- the quaint life we lead. It's a good thing and again meant nicely.

4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?

We get on ok, some Scots want to govern themselves even more without English intervention as do some Welsh...Northern Ireland is of course a difficulty due to the problems there (which this thread need not go into, this is just a discussion :) ) But people always ant devolution in some ways. For example in Cornwall (An English county) some there want to govern themselves and are proud of their flag fot that area too.

5) Is Britain insignificant?

No, we have the 4th largest economy in the world- that gives us the significance. Our armed forces are well trained too, for two main reasons- 1.They have had a lot of fighting over the years. 2.They are well trained, they haven't got a army that is too big to disciple- they are just right.

6) Is the monarchy insignificant?

Well the Queen does have to sign every law that he government wants to inact so she isn't in hat sense. She hasn't really got any alternative if she says no there would be problems. She even signs things so that the armed forces can be used in combat. I like the monarchy I must admit with their quirks etc. They cost a lot of upkeep, but it's not always about money when your national identity is important

7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?

Well, it depends your point of view. If a country is hurting people and they are suffering then I think we should interfere. Otherwise, I don't think Britain does really.

8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

The U.S doesn't scare Britain not at all. It's the age old thing where due to people saying they "suck up" that causes a lot of anti Americanism. I admit I like America, that doesn't make me evil or anything like some would say. I watched the Republican conference the other day for a few hours (that doesn't make me a supporter of them) and I agree that I have the American dream within me as well. Britain likes to also think it has a special relationship together and we will help each other of course when needs must regardless of our size. Britain will side with whoever it feels is the right person to side with. Now if the USA attacked Syria this year say, Britain would not support the USA militarily.

Hope that helps,

His Majesty

Long serving delegate of the region of England

Britain is England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

The UNITED KINGDOM is England, Scotland, Wales and NORTHERN Ireland.

I never really understood why this was, i just accept that it is.
No Britian is Wales, England and Scotland.

Which is why the full name for the UK is the United Kingdon of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

And before the Irish Republic was formed it was the United Kingdon of Great Britain and Ireland.

Inferring that Ireland and Britian are two different things

yeah, about number 8.... our politicians suck up to the US to much, most of the rest of the country hate america, well, i do. and i really hope we don't join the US, and i also really hope we don't join germany or france...
just thought i'd add my opinion

and i think colonising is a nice idea, but lets take it much more easily, rename the euro the pound and rename europe the british empire, then we can be part of europe, and we can be a superpower

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.


1) Economically I think Britain would benefit more from joining Europe than joining the U.S. Not only is the Euro-dollar a new stock currency in the world of oil-trading, but logistically it is easier to trade with an integrated Europe than the U.S., unless a European presence for the U.S. would work out for the better. (I'm no economist; I'm a politics student.)

2) I don't know if the French hate us or not. They have reason to be jealous, seeing as we so thoroughly trounced them repeatedly; like the 100 Years War, when our Longbowmen kicked so much arse; and when we took the bayonet they invented and beat them with it. They like to control us in the E.U., as a Franco-German alliance, but that's not really a problem for me. Personally I like the French. They've never done anything wrong for me, apart from testing nuclear weapons in the South Pacific, but that's a government thing and their government I don't like.

3) Britain isn't that quaint, unless you go out into the countryside and find a small village that's quaint.

4) Heheh. No the English don't need to be worried about being invaded by the Scottish. Scotland has no standing army of its own. There's also Northern Ireland as a part of Britain, but the less said about the troubles there the better. Wales is really just England but with their version of Countdown is daft; "I'll have a consonant please... and another.... and another... and another" (<< you won't get that unless you're british... and maybe not even then). Scotland is a good place, especially for students, as they don't have tuition fees (damn Labour Party in England make us have to pay them, and they increase in 2006).

5) Britain isn't insignificant. Many countries hold it to be an example of one of the most stable democracies in the world. If you examine our political system, you can clearly see the significance of Britain in the world of politics. In terms of world trade and diplmacy, Britain nowadays is less of an enforcer and more of a mediator. We no longer rule the waves, and haven't since 1914 or thereabouts (First World War). We're in the UN Security Council, and through years of sensible government and respected world action have earned that place there. The Empire is gone but the precedent of British importance remains.

6) The Monarchy is insignificant, politically. It has no power, but a lot of traditional authority. The only powers it gets to exercise are the Royal Prerogatives, such as the state opening of Parliament. They have too much money and pay too little taxes, much like most of the remaining remnants of pre-Democracy.

7) As far as I'm concerned, Britain has never become over-involved in other countries' affairs. Serious humanitarian issues such as Yugoslavia, Iraq, Mozambique, etc. have all been responded to by the UK, but it takes something to get Britain physically involved. We don't go around deposing democratically-elected leaders in South-American states that happen not to like us, for example, which is more than I can say for some....

8) The Anglo-American alliance is probably one of our oldest (not THE oldest, that's Portugal). It goes back to the Monroe Doctrine, really, during the early 1800s, when our Foreign Minister George Canning and the POTUS at the time (Monroe) got together to discuss the threat of the Holy Alliance in Europe (Prussia, Austria, and Russia) expanding again into the New World, whose states were now Republics. The Doctrine was basically a declaration by Britain and America that those Republics were internationally recognised and expansion into the New World would now not be tolerated. It didn't quite go down that well, it wasn't exactly tea and crumpets at the White House, there was fairly heated negotiation, but since then the US and Britain have remained friends, even through American's isolationist periods. The US helped us in WWI and WWII, even though it took the sinking of the Lusitania (WWI) and the threat of Hitler getting Mexico to invade the US (WWII), which strengthened our friendship no end.

yeah, about number 8.... our politicians suck up to the US to much, most of the rest of the country hate america, well, i do. and i really hope we don't join the US, and i also really hope we don't join germany or france...
just thought i'd add my opinion
We are not going to join Germany or France. We might join the EU fully (ie Monetary Union and ratified constitution etc), but so will these countries. Also I think that Britian is strong and important enough to remain autonomous wather then being swallowed up into either of these two countries. Still anti EU though [Not for nationalistic/patriotic reasons though]

It is a bit like if Texas refused to join the Union because "We don't want to be part of New York."

2)Yes the French really hate the English, and the English hate them right back.
...
4)The British get along with each other by the knowledge that England will blow the living shit out of anyone who dares leave, so no, they don't have to worry about the Scottish, because England could blow Scotland off of the map if it wanted to.


I have to disagree with the French hating the English - I'm Scottish, and Scotland has historically gotten on with France when England hasnt, but really I think its just the English still resenting the French for an ass whooping centuries ago, I dont know any french people who hate England...

And as for Scotland... well i've never seen a Death To The English sign anywhere, and also dont know anyone who hates the english... except for the occasional drunken yob.
And also, England COULDNT 'blow Scotland off the map' for one reason and one reason only: we're the ones with the Trident nuclear submarine base... Scotland's got enough nukes to kill every living person on the planet (not that that's a good thing)... so kindly lay off it and lets remember that we're the UNITED Kingdom :)

As for who to join / not join... well unless we dig up the country and replant it on the other side of the atlantic, we're IN europe, and I think its silly to pretend otherwise... America's over THERE, and Europe's OVER HERE... either way, we gotta stop sitting on the fence!

What I'd like to see (not gonna happen, I know) is a merger between the EU and the US into a big beast of an economic superpower. THAT would stabilise the global economy...



Edit:

Scotland is a good place, especially for students, as they don't have tuition fees (damn Labour Party in England make us have to pay them, and they increase in 2006).
Actually we do, ours just aren't up-front like in england & wales...
As I see it...
Blair wants 50% of all school-leavers to go to Uni.
Blair wants loads of money up-front to go to Uni, forcing students to go into massive debt to do so.
Blair wants... more of our money. Thats what it boils down to, right? An economic boost for banking? New Labour sucks alright... aren't we rather in a one-party system like Stalinist Communism? IE we can all vote, but theres no one to vote for 'cept Tony? Grr...

Yeah you pay yours in a University Tax during your employment. I'd much rather do that than pay a lump sum up front.


[EDIT: And I wouldn't call it one-party politics akin to Stalinism. There ARE other parties to vote for, but they're rubbish, so it's their fault they aren't getting into power. C'mon Raving Loony Party; all cats should have balloons!]

There ARE other parties to vote for, but they're rubbish, so it's their fault they aren't getting into power.
...Or maybe thats just what Tony wants you to think... :P sorry, nevermind me

Hi, Fluffyness on the Sea. An interesting post - I'll answer as I can see fit, but coming from Belfast I may have a different take in some instances than someone from, say, London.

1) It is hard to really say whether Britain should join either. It was a major colonial power for centuries and was perfectly economically viable in its own right then. The economy is fairly good at present - we've come out of recession and unemployment is fairly low. The European Common Market basically allowed free and fair trade between European countries, which was surely a good thing for all concerned, but becoming part of a European superstate would achive very little. Britain and mainland European countries have very different cultures (and language barriers); the Euro will put up prices, add to inflation and potentially put many small businesses out of business - and our own economy, as already stated, is not bad anyway! However, joining the US would not achieve much either. While Britain is heading towards being a consumerist state, it still lags considerably behind America. The culture is completely different. And I'm sorry for this (and it is a generalisation) but your average British person on the street is not very fond of America in general!

2) Not entirely sure, but both go to each other's respective countries on holiday a lot, so on a individual basis, probably not. However, I do think both countries hate each other as 'a race'. Perhaps someone from England could clarify?

3) Generally speaking, NO. You get your odd remote village - occasionally even a town - that could be described as quaint, but if people were to come here with the expectation that it's just quaint, full stop, they would be very disappointed.

4) Great Britain is actually *not* made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Great Britain is made up of the former three, and the United Kingdom includes *Northern* Ireland (the Republic of Ireland severed political ties with Britain in the 1920s). It is alleged that the English hate the Scottish and the Irish and vice versa. While this is perhaps true in a political and historical sense, generally speaking (in my experience anyway) at an individual level, the four countries of the UK have no real problems with each other. I did experience one occasions where, upon telling an English guy I was from Belfast, his friendly attitude changed completely. That is a tremendous insult to people from NI - the view that we're all dangerous was never ever right. Only a few arseholes got involved in violence, and the *overwhelming* majority got on with their lives. However, that was an isolated case - generally there's no problems. I'm afraid I actually laughed when you asked did the English fear invasion by Scotland. Many Scottish people (though not all - many are very loyal to the Crown) would like independence from, or at least a confederal relationship with Westminster, and indeed have a rather powerful devolved government. It would be a bit of a u-turn to invade the country they want to break from! As for those that wish to stay as part of the UK as they are, being patriots to that cause would contradict any notion of invading England, as it is a country those people would want to remain strongly allied and on good terms with. (Scottish people - any further enlightenment, folks?).

5) How could it be? And in what sense do you use the word 'insignificant' - politically, economically, what? I think there's about 60 million people in the UK, the majority of whom contribute to a local, national and international economy and community. Britain is still a world leader economically, and its language is the second most used language on Earth - though under the current government I couldn't say it's politically significant :-)

6) In terms of political power, yes. The institution basically acts as a figurehead. Theoretically, the Queen has ultimate power over legislation, but in reality she never changes anything or refuses to sign a document. However, one thing the Monarchy does very well is bring in tourists, which in turn boosts the economy. I think also that British people (probably the English especially, but not excluding the rest of us either) feel that the Monarchy is part of our history, and has therefore become an entrenched part of our culture. The majority of people therefore still want to keep it; republicanism (in its true sense) is not an attractive prospect to most (though Mr Blair might as well be called President!). Interestingly, in the Republic of Ireland, the President is in more of less the same position as the Queen - she has no real political power either.

7) No. They rarely do so - and that's one thing that fundamentally annoys British people about the alliance with America - America, as a political nation, seems intent on policing the world (that is a political remark, *not* an individual or personal one; no offence is intended at all). The UK doesn't do that. I suppose many felt that it interfered too much in NI's affairs during the Troubles, but in a purely political sense, it was officially part of their state (and remains so). And someone had to do something about it - while they didn't do a great job (far from it) we sure as hell weren't going to make progress on our own! But I digress. No, certainly as far as the public in general are aware, to all intents and purposes Britain lets other countries get on with their lives and hopes they will extend the same courtesy.

8) Most people think too much, to be honest. Or, to be more accurate, they think that Blair sides too much with Bush. While I think that an alliance with America probably initially existed due to similar principles between the two states, the attitude of the public has changed since the Iraq war. Speaking personally, I saw arguments both for and against the war, and therefore remained reasonably ambivalent. But the majority of people here were fundamentally opposed to invading Iraq, and Blair ignored that. Did he do it for what he saw as the greater good of his society? Perhaps, but in general people think he was just licking Bush's arse, and they all hate Bush!

Well, that's about it. I hope that at least some of the above was helpful to you! Hopefully, people from England, Scotland and Wales will contribute to to give a wide ranging opinion on the issues.

Regards,

Kazcaper

Really really feel the urge to point out that Ireland as a whole isn't a part of Britain or Great Britain...I think the people who died in the war of independe and the 1916 Easter Uprising would be a little offended to be lumped in as part of Great Britain...I assume the original poster must have been referring to Northern Ireland.

Id Rather we were part of Europe than the United States. Despite our differences we have far more shared history and culture. Also it makes much more sense economically and politically. The idea of Britain remaining a totally independant state in this day and age is laughable. We're no longer a super power, politically, militarily or economically and we need to ally ourselves with someone for purely economic and trading purposes. The world needs a balance to the United States as it it not good to live in a world dominated by one super power and Europe could be that balance if Britain was more enthusiastic about closer ties.

The whole Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland thing...id say we should give all three their independence whether they want it or not...the government spends far more on subsidies to those places than they get back in tax so lets let them have their independence...it will make England all the more wealthy :)

Whatever the problems in GB, the fact remains that most of the money spent in GB is for the benefit of LONDON! London produces nothing. London is the middleman who gets a large amount of credit for selling other peoples' manufactured goods. Unfortunately, the ordinary Londoner does not benefit from this. Who does then? Why, the people who are at the head of companies who benefit from the London centred economy we have. Wherever you live in GB, what help you should be given is being sucked away by the 'needs' of those who benefit by a thriving London. Those at the top! Now those who 'run' London, like the Mayor Ken Livingstone, complain that London is paying more than her fair-share of taxes! If things go-on as they are, there will be no GB, just an over-populated obese London with it's inhabitants force-feeding all the fat lazy company heads and politicians who have got used to 'the good life' in London!

Really really feel the urge to point out that Ireland as a whole isn't a part of Britain or Great Britain...I think the people who died in the war of independe and the 1916 Easter Uprising would be a little offended to be lumped in as part of Great Britain...I assume the original poster must have been referring to Northern Ireland.

Id Rather we were part of Europe than the United States. Despite our differences we have far more shared history and culture. Also it makes much more sense economically and politically. The idea of Britain remaining a totally independant state in this day and age is laughable. We're no longer a super power, politically, militarily or economically and we need to ally ourselves with someone for purely economic and trading purposes. The world needs a balance to the United States as it it not good to live in a world dominated by one super power and Europe could be that balance if Britain was more enthusiastic about closer ties.

The whole Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland thing...id say we should give all three their independence whether they want it or not...the government spends far more on subsidies to those places than they get back in tax so lets let them have their independence...it will make England all the more wealthy :)


Absolute waffle!

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
I would prefer to be British... it would be a bit ironic Britain joining the USA (to become ruled by her colonies), and the USA would have to change its name... mostly as we're not in America.
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
Quite probably, but we hate them more.
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
No, just original and individual... and (in some people's opinion) better than everyone else.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?
Wrong. Great Britain is England, Scotland and Wales. Wales isn't a seperate country, just a seperate nation. England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland (anciently the whole of Ireland) make up the United Kingdom, not Great Britain.
5) Is Britain insignificant?
When the sky turns brown.
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
It shouldn't be, but is becoming moreso.
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
To some extent, but with the mass immigration we are at the end of it's not as if it doesn't concern us what happens everywhere else.
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?
Because we are close allies. I wouldn't say we "suck up", though Blair is often a "suck up" to Bush.

I've lived in Wales my whole life, so this is what i think:

1)I don't want Britan to join the US or Europe, i agree that we should start colonising.

2)I don't think that the French actually do hate the english, i'm not sure if the english hate the French but i know that some of the Welsh hate the french and the english! (well, they hate the english more!)

3)No, not anymore i don't think. britan is very loud and in your face now, i think. and that's how the rest of the world see us in my opinion.

4)It's not the Scottish that the english need to worry about! It's the Welsh! to be quite honest, some of my family are english but i hate their snobbish attitude towards me because i live in a smaller country! BUGGER OFF! we neither want nor need your sympathy and i for one am sick to death of hearing that Welsh is a dying language, well it's not dead yet, because i know of thousands of people who speak it, including me!

5)No, Britan is definetly not insignificant. Britan is very very important in this day and age, our goverment, and our culture are very well known. Britan is one of the most influential countries in the world!

6) Personally, i don't think that the monarchy is insignificant. I appreciate it, although the Queen doesn't actually play an important role in governing the country, if i met her, i would be honoured!

7) I don't really like Tony Blair, but, i think that so far the british goverment has interfered because it had to be done. I would rather that we had interfered too much, rather than not all because at least then we would have tried.
8) I think there is a mutual respect. many people might argue that Blair only joined the war in iraq because of Bush, and that he was just following a bigger country. i don't believe that that is true at all, Blair did what he thought was right (i agree with the war) and it just happened to be, that Bush (who i am in favour of) had the sense to see that it needed to be done as well.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?
I will answer my own questions, so my own position is clear.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S. as opposed to Europe. However, Ideally I would prefer to remain independent. The reasons for choosing America over Europe are because I feel that Britain is respected more by the U.S than Europe, America would probably want to keep the monarchy, Britain would have more power as part of America than as part of Europe (imho) and I would rather go to Disneyland than Eurodisney. (did you see me slip in a joke reason?)
2) I think the English (as opposed to the British) have had an unstable relationship with the french for many generations. Remember that England and France have fought on more occasions than they have been united. I think the relationship has become such that one expects the other to dislike them, when this may not really be the case. It is now a situation where the english children dislike the french for no other reason than the idea that the feeling is mutual... and vice versa. It is like a self-perpetuating circle of discontent and misinterpretation.
3) Yes, America is the nation responsible for me asking this question. It is possibly a stereo-type that Americans think Britain is quaint, but I can see where it comes from. Has anyone seen the size of the armchairs and the doorways in America? Not only those, the cars, the fridge/freezers, the sandwich toasters. Everything seems to be bigger in America. So any american coming to england and seeing the small 16th century cottages with their tiny tiny doors... is going to think "How quaint." I only added this question, because I was curious to see if it WAS the opinion of the Americans, a stereo-type of Americans view of Britain, or just British paranoia. Also, i wondered if any other nations agreed or disagreed or had other opinions.
4) When president Clinton met Charlotte Church, he asked her where she was from. She said Wales. ... so Clinton asked her what 'State' Wales was in. Now, the obvious joke would be... 'a bloody awful state' but it would not be true. Wales is a very beautiful and underestimated place. (Just wear waterproof clothing if you ask a local to pronounce any placenames). I honestly have no opinion on this question myself, hence me asking. I know the relationship between scotland & england 'can' be unpredictable, but personally I have a lot of respect for the scottish throughout history.
5) In my opinion, Britain is not insignificant. In another thread, someone claimed that Britain was insignificant, then changed their stance to claim that they meant England was as significant as France. I still don't know what they 'really' meant, but it sparked this question.
6) I am a monarchist, and proud of it. I wish the press had not hounded Princess Diana to her death because not only did they create two Princes without a mother, they lost us one of our most respected figureheads for the royal family. However, since Diana's tragic death, Prince William has attempted to follow in his mothers footsteps and done some groundbreaking charity work. The monarchy is not insignificant, though certain members make a darn good impression of it. (I won't mention which ones)
7) I think Britain does not interfere enough. However, I think the government should display more caution when interfering in foreign affairs. I also think that Britains own problems should be addressed before casting stones, but that could stem from my low opinion of the government in general.
8) In general I could not answer. This baffles me endlessly. Are we siding too much or not? I really do not know. All I can answer is that I personally like Americans. I do not respect their government as much as I could, but I have already mentioned my low opinion of the Brit. Govt also. Please believe me when I say it is nothing personal. As for scared of america... yep, too right I am. Wheras i like Americans, you guys sure do have your fair share of 'jerks with guns.'

Hi i'm 16 from Scotland. I think Scotland will have full independence in a few years as just about everyone my age wants independence. Alot of people my age, including me dislike the english and some even dislike being british.

We only have a population of about 5 million whereas england have a population of 50 million, so theres not really a chance of us invading them.

The political party thats main aim is for independence has a few aims i don't like(they want to have the euro currency and keep the monarchy), which is why alot of people don't vote for them.

If we did get independence we would be closely allied with Britain and would be on good terms

9 out of 10 people in Scotland would have a republic Scotland which didn't have a monarchy.
As for hating the french, its the ENGLISH that are disliked by the french,SCOTLAND has alot of historic ties with france, like helping them to invade england, so we have a good relationship with them.

Scotland should have independence as we have our own language(Scots/scots gaelic) plus our own cultures that are totally different from englands.

As for the United Kingdom, Wales was conquered by England, and because england could never conquer Scotland they bought us out(I hope everyone that sold Scotland never went anywhere never heaven).

Anyway, ALBA GU BRAGH (scotland forever)

Hi, Fluffyness on the Sea. An interesting post - I'll answer as I can see fit, but coming from Belfast I may have a different take in some instances than someone from, say, London.

Hello. I asked the questions because i wanted differing opinions, so your response is very welcome.

4) Great Britain is actually *not* made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Great Britain is made up of the former three, and the United Kingdom includes *Northern* Ireland (the Republic of Ireland severed political ties with Britain in the 1920s)..... (edited for space)

I see a few people have corrected me on this. I apologise. Someone also said that people who died fighting would be extremely offended, and again I apologise. It is never my intention to offend anyone. When i am wrong, i admit it. Somewhere in my history lessons I seem to have missed that whole conflict. Shocking I know, but I put it down to the fact that my history lessons went straight from WWI to WWII, conveniently missing everything in between. I am frankly appalled with myself that I did not know this, especially as i class myself as British.

The conflict in Ireland is about 300 years old, in various forms. Biggest modern troubles were in the 60s, they were called "The Troubles".

Hi i'm 16 from Scotland. I think Scotland will have full independence in a few years as just about everyone my age wants independence. Alot of people my age, including me dislike the english and some even dislike being british.

We only have a population of about 5 million whereas england have a population of 50 million, so theres not really a chance of us invading them.

The political party thats main aim is for independence has a few aims i don't like(they want to have the euro currency and keep the monarchy), which is why alot of people don't vote for them.

If we did get independence we would be closely allied with Britain and would be on good terms

9 out of 10 people in Scotland would have a republic Scotland which didn't have a monarchy.
As for hating the french, its the ENGLISH that are disliked by the french,SCOTLAND has alot of historic ties with france, like helping them to invade england, so we have a good relationship with them.

Scotland should have independence as we have our own language(Scots/scots gaelic) plus our own cultures that are totally different from englands.

As for the United Kingdom, Wales was conquered by England, and because england could never conquer Scotland they bought us out(I hope everyone that sold Scotland never went anywhere never heaven).

Anyway, ALBA GU BRAGH (scotland forever)

I don't understand why you hate us so much. Really, we have the same monarchy - the monarchy is actually probably more Scottish than English...

I consider myself English though genetically I would really have to call myself British as I have a wee bit of Scots in me too. Independence wouldn't give Scotland any gains - just because you have slightly different cultures doesn't really give you a "for" for independence.

If we're going to go into a cultural-independence debate then most counties of England and some of Wales and Scotland should be independent in their own right. How many cultural similarities is there between the "new face" of London and somewhere like Somerset, East Anglia (Norfolk & Suffolk) or Cumbria?

Explain what benefits you really think an independent Scotland would bring, and for that matter what it is that you have against us evil English anyway.

and i think colonising is a nice idea, but lets take it much more easily, rename the euro the pound and rename europe the british empire, then we can be part of europe, and we can be a superpower
Lol, is this the recipe for an instant dictatorship?

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?


Why do you absolutely need to join either? The same argument has been made about Canada given our proximity and economic interdependance with the US, however we have managed to walk a line that balances our independance with our economic health. Britain might find themselves in a more comfortable position working on trade agreements with the EU and other parties without encumbering themselves with the political entanglements of the EU government.

2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
Another nice cultural rivalry that ebbs and flows with current events. Seems to be human nature as an offshoot of patriotism to have such rivalries whch get put aside when the common good demands it and trotted out when it doesn't.

3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
define quaint? There is a ton of history there and there are those who cling to the past too hard, but no more than anywhere else.

4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?

Only by their football fans....and bottles of the golden nectar of the region.

5) Is Britain insignificant?
No.

6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
Is the largest and richest landowner in any country insignificant? No. As a figurehead have they made themselves such? In sime ways. But then again the royalty can be used as a back-door political contact where the offical government cannot act, and still is a symbol of the past to many. They can play a very helpful role to the country, but then again they can also be a tabloid embarassment. What the hell - they are fun to keep around just for the sheer lunacy of their actions sometimes... lol.

7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
The British government's role is to take care of the interest of Britons, and so of course they "interfere" when circumstances require it. The line should be drawn the same as for any country - when your interference acts to the dire detriment of that other country's citizens for your own economic gain.

8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

I think tony Blair WAS in GWs pocket, but it seems like this has become enough of a political liability now that he is almost pretending that he doesn't know George.... but I also think that there is a natural affilition for common interests many times. The dificulty being that the small fish doesn't often get the rewards of shared actions (e.g. how many British companies are making big bucks on rebuilding contracts in Iraq?)

I don't think it is fear OR mutual rspect, although every other country has to admit that there are measures of both in relations to the world's remaining superpower. It is actions out of self interest.



All this being said - I loved the time I spent living in Britain (London, Oxford, Cambridge, and Edinburgh). For all the talk of British "reserve" I found it a wonderfully open and friendly place to hang out for a couple of years. Those elements of class structure that still remain did sometimes annoy the hell out of me, but mostly that didn't come up. That silly 11:00 p.m. closing time at most of the pubs was annoying though...... hell, the party is just getting started at that time over here!

I don't understand why you hate us so much. Really, we have the same monarchy - the monarchy is actually probably more Scottish than English...

I consider myself English though genetically I would really have to call myself British as I have a wee bit of Scots in me too. Independence wouldn't give Scotland any gains - just because you have slightly different cultures doesn't really give you a "for" for independence.

If we're going to go into a cultural-independence debate then most counties of England and some of Wales and Scotland should be independent in their own right. How many cultural similarities is there between the "new face" of London and somewhere like Somerset, East Anglia (Norfolk & Suffolk) or Cumbria?

Explain what benefits you really think an independent Scotland would bring, and for that matter what it is that you have against us evil English anyway.




Now that the English do not have the Empire to do thier fighting for them, from the Welsh bowmen at Agincourt and Crecy to the Scots, Australians, New Zealanders and Indians at El Alamein, they seem to be getting the wind-up! The Scots don't forget how the Highland Division was sacrificed at St. Valery fighting-off the Germans while the mostly English rest of the army was escaping via Dunkirk!

on the question number 2.
Being French myself, living in England at the moment (Go Shef!), and living with 5 english flatmates, I consider myself quite up to date on the matter of who hates who in those two countries.
When I first came in this country 8 months ago, I didn't knew that French were hated in England, I mean that much...I never heard any negative comments about England before, and we don't have anything like joke about them...We just don't care, really. Here? well it's kinda hard to miss it. Everyday is another French joke. It's alright, that's part of the game. I give it back too them.
And during Euro 2004, in the pub, with my face blue white and red, i had quite a success during the England-France game.

For the one that says that we are jealous because England kicked our arses...just a few correction. We won the 100 years war: England got kicked back to their tiny island and never succeeded in taking our crown (taking the crown was the reason for beginning the war). Then there is Hastings 1066: We invaded England (The Normands were French!). This is the reason why your english monarchy was talking French until the 17th century and that the motto of the monarchy is "Honni soit qui mal y pense" and "Dieu et mon droit". Those are in french.
So we might have lost a couple of battles. U did too. :sniper:

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.


1) One look at the Atlantic Ocean tells me that good 'ol Britain too far from the US to be part of the US.

2)The French bloody, past relations have been well..... very bloody.

3)I suppose it is "quaint".

4) Fristly Scotland couldn't fight and win a war no matter how hard they tried. And Secondly Ireland is independant, N. Ireland is British. So I guess we sort of get on.

5)Britian plays a big role in international affairs and is a nuclear superpower (in a way). So in my opinion it isn't insignificant.

6)The monachy is in charge of the church of England.

7)The British government don't really interfere much internationaly, but when it comes down to countries in the commonwealth, then the govenment somestimes push them around too much or in some cases too little.

8)Tony Blair loves Bush and Britain is or is supposed to be USA's strongest and closest ally, so think we side with the US because you can wide us off the face of the planet with the touch of a button, and we side if the US because we're best friends.

Thank you very much!

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.


1) I would like to see Britain become a bigger part of Europe in my lifetime, and would rather die than see it part of the USA. opinion here is divided between pro-europe and anti-everyone, the latter don't seem to see that the only choices are america or europe.

2) I woudn't say 'hate', its kind of like a mutual rivalry. we have our differences but at the end of the day France and Britain have to much history together to hate eachother. mostly the anglo-french hate is just for show.

3) no.

4) england and scotland get on the best out of all the countries, the scots are seen as tight-fisted and boistorous but are respected for the contribution they've made to the country as a whole (TV, well over half of the bridges), i'm not scottish but i guess they feel the same way back. northern ireland is mostly just pitied, and wales is mocked (the tourism boards slogan "the big country" is just a lie, its not big, its not a country and its not a 'the')

5) every state is insignificant (except maybe america), unless they band togther.

6) yes. it costs us a lot, apparently it makes us a lot (don't think i've seen the figures for this), but i don't like it cos it breeds (eugh) patriotic feeling.

7) there's interfering with countries' affairs, and there's interfering with countries' citizens... in the chest... with a round of fire. i've got nothing against doing the first, its the latter than annoys people.

8) the british, along with most of europe (nay, the world) don't like america. the right wing resents being the remora to another nation's shark. and the left resents helping a country viewed as warmongering and imperialist.

For the one that says that we are jealous because England kicked our arses...just a few correction. We won the 100 years war: England got kicked back to their tiny island and never succeeded in taking our crown (taking the crown was the reason for beginning the war). Then there is Hastings 1066: We invaded England (The Normands were French!). This is the reason why your english monarchy was talking French until the 17th century and that the motto of the monarchy is "Honni soit qui mal y pense" and "Dieu et mon droit". Those are in french.
So we might have lost a couple of battles. U did too. :sniper:

Heheh. Yeah I know buddy, sorry about that I left the computer and didn't finish what I was supposed to be saying. I meant to say that before Joan d'Arc fought the British back away, we succeeded in surprising the French forces with our Longbowmen (at Crécy I think). Hastings 1066 is nearly a millennium away, but I know the Normans were French. At the same time, I think, our King (Edward the Confessor) died and we were invaded at the North of England. The bayonet example still stands though.. right? :D
Our monarchy has been through multiple nationalities, and we were lucky enough for France to be one of them. :fluffle:

The whole Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland thing...id say we should give all three their independence whether they want it or not...the government spends far more on subsidies to those places than they get back in tax so lets let them have their independence...it will make England all the more wealthy :)

Not true, despite what Ken Livingstone may say. Putting aside all the arguments about North Sea oil and everything else, we can see that this is rubbish for one simple reason: the long-standing Tory opposition to Scottish devolution and their violent antipathy towards Scottish independence. If, as it is claimed, Scotland is a drain on England's finances, why is the Tory party so opposed to Scottish independence?

In Westminster elections Scotland votes solidly Labour; the Tories currently have only one Westminster MP from the whole of Scotland. Until 1997 every single Labour government had relied on Scottish votes to put them in power: without Scotland, the Tories would have remained in government for over 50 years. So you have to ask yourself: why are the Tories so desperate to hold on to a part of the country which votes for their opponents in overwhelming numbers, which has been responsible for every electoral defeat they've suffered since 1945 and which they claim is nothing but a drain on the public purse?

As Tweedy The Hat points out, the biggest drain on the UK's economy is London. For example, the vast army of civil servants are almost all based in the capital city, and are paid extra for living there: "London weighting", it's called, to reflect the supposed higher cost of living. Why not move the civil servants out of London to Manchester, and Liverpool, and Leeds, and Birmingham, and Glasgow?

Then there's the transport infrastructure. Other UK cities pay for their own transport networks from local funding. London's Underground system -- possibly the most expensive public transport network on earth -- is funded by UK taxation. So is Network South-East, the train system for the London commuter belt.

Then there are all of London's museums and galleries, because they are deemed to be "national" -- even though they are stuck down in the bottom right-hand corner of the country.

Back on topic...


1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?

The USA is 3,000 miles away. Europe is 25. It would seem perverse to become a colony of the USA when we can be a main player in Europe.

2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?

Yes. But not in a bad "kill them all" way, more like an irritated neighbour way. And not nearly as much as they hate the Germans. But it's good to visit Europe as a Scot, since when people ask if you are English, and you tell them "No, Scots", they immediately apologise and are far friendlier than necessary to make up for their insulting mistake. :)

3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.

If by "quaint" you mean infested with archaic structures and institutions, then yes.

4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?

The smaller parts of the UK don't like England, no -- although this really doesn't go much beyond hoping that their football team will lose: more of a Man City/Man United antipathy than anything serious. And the English really don't need to worry about being invaded by the Scots. We already run most of the country for you anyway. :)

5) Is Britain insignificant?

No. we're a member of the G8, we're a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and we have our own nuclear weapons (which is why we're a permanent member of the UN Security Council).

6) Is the monarchy insignificant?

Meaningless, yes. Insignificant -- in that it is an affront to democracy and equality -- no.

7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?

Tricky. As a G8 and UN SC member, we are bound to interfere just by our existence. Further, our legacy of Empire gives us some responsibility towards the countries we so comprehensively ripped off for two centuries.

8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Obviously there are long-standing cultural and political bonds between the UK and USA. On current issues, I don't know why Tony Blair has got into bed with the deranged fundamentalist neo-cons running the USA at the moment. I think he was terrified of a unilateral USA rampaging around the planet under the sole control of Dick Cheney, and tried to maintain some connection between the US and the rest of the world. Maybe he thinks he can act as a brake on the worst excesses. Scary thought -- maybe he already has.

Now that the English do not have the Empire to do thier fighting for them, from the Welsh bowmen at Agincourt and Crecy to the Scots, Australians, New Zealanders and Indians at El Alamein, they seem to be getting the wind-up! The Scots don't forget how the Highland Division was sacrificed at St. Valery fighting-off the Germans while the mostly English rest of the army was escaping via Dunkirk!

Bringing up history to argue a current topic is rather irrelevant. Do you dislike the germans because of the wars? Or the Scandinavians for invading in their longboats? Maybe the italians are evil because the Roman Empire marched across europe. Are all Australians bad people for being descended from convicts and basically stealing a whole country from the natives? (I apologise for the use of a stereotype there)
If you have some legitimate reasons to hate anyone, then hate the person... not their culture. My little sister was pushed down some stairs in front of a local council building 3 years ago by a scotsman. Do I hate all scots for it? No, but I certainly have a strong opinion about the alcoholic that pushed an eleven year old girl down a flight of concrete steps. Incidentally, his excuse was based upon years of oppression that had happened generations before he was born, and it was irrelevant then.... it is irrelevant now.

1) One look at the Atlantic Ocean tells me that good 'ol Britain too far from the US to be part of the US.

2)The French bloody, past relations have been well..... very bloody.

3)I suppose it is "quaint".

4) Fristly Scotland couldn't fight and win a war no matter how hard they tried. And Secondly Ireland is independant, N. Ireland is British. So I guess we sort of get on.

5)Britian plays a big role in international affairs and is a nuclear superpower (in a way). So in my opinion it isn't insignificant.

6)The monachy is in charge of the church of England.

7)The British government don't really interfere much internationaly, but when it comes down to countries in the commonwealth, then the govenment somestimes push them around too much or in some cases too little.

8)Tony Blair loves Bush and Britain is or is supposed to be USA's strongest and closest ally, so think we side with the US because you can wide us off the face of the planet with the touch of a button, and we side if the US because we're best friends.

Thank you very much!



Fristly Scotland couldn't fight and win a war no matter how hard they tried

... ever heard of Bannockburn? That is why there is still a Scotland. That is when the English army was stuffed by Scottish peasants and kicked-back to their own Yorkshire-pudding eating country. England then carried-on trying to invade and take-over any other country it felt it wanted as it's plaything. Needles to say, they resisted. Hence the troubles in Ireland to the present day.

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))
1) I'd prefer England to join Europe, where much closer to there and I balive it would help us econermy.

2)yes, and the English hate them back, goes way back to 1066. (It's a jocky sort of hate relationship, though)

3) No.

4) Every country in Britian should have it's inderpendence, including Cornwall.

5) Pide says not but...

6) No, it gets slightly too much money (They should only get enough for upkeep and charitys.) They do more good than harm though.

7) We probably do interfer to much.

8) I don't mind being on good terms with the US, but going into a war against a innocent country...

A millenium ago and the rivalry is still here. That's good. I think we have together so much history that it would be stupid to think we are different. (but we are better...lol).
ok, I give you the bayonet example. Anyway I love England, and pubs are great! (And I don't know anybody hating English or Germans at home, maybe a bit the Belgium because they are like the retarded brother but, hey...).

Also: England is not quaint. it has a long ass heritage of over a millenium on one little Island. The weigh of History is everywhere here, a lot more concentrated than in my country for example. Having this kind of heritage such as Normands castles (hehehe) or Manchester's huge red brick factories and ship canal is something awesome.
This is something that America should have. It might make them understand some errors of the [read "our European"] past that they are doing again...

Fristly Scotland couldn't fight and win a war no matter how hard they tried

... ever heard of Bannockburn? That is why there is still a Scotland. That is when the English army was stuffed by Scottish peasants and kicked-back to their own Yorkshire-pudding eating country. England then carried-on trying to invade and take-over any other country it felt it wanted as it's plaything. Needles to say, they resisted. Hence the troubles in Ireland to the present day.

Jesus, keep the heid, man. That was the early 14th century. This is now. And in any case, Bannockburn was a battle, not a war. The war didn't end until the treaty of Burgh-Northampton in 1328. Then it started again in 1333, and kept going until the English lost interest and went off to try to conquer France instead. The Scots didn't so much win the Scottish Wars (plural) of Independence -- we just refused to lose them.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?

Britain dosn't like the EU or the US, so we're quite happy to stay as britain

2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?

Not a clue. I do know that were not perticuarly fond of the french, though

3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.

Id say so

4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?

Wales isnt a seperate nation, and we havnt had trouble with scotland for hundreds of years

5) Is Britain insignificant?

I dont believe so, but being british id probably be a little biased

6) Is the monarchy insignificant?

Despite what some would think, definatly not. They may not play an active role in the current running of the country, but they are a figurehead for all of britain to rally behind

7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?

Most of us would much prefer if TB wasnt GWBs best mates and we wernt dragged into every war GWB wants.

8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Britain itself definately does not want to side with america, no matter what TB thinks. We most certainly are not "sucking up" to america, and we are not in any way scared of them. If we share a little respect with them, that is all it is

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?

Economically, it would be better not to join either, as our economy is very different from that where the Euro and USD are controlled. the Euro has already caused economic trouble through most of europe

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))


1. Personally i am of the opinion that we should start leaning more towards europe. First we already hold a significant amount of power there, we are seen as the blaancing force agaisnt the french/german block, msot of the smaller countries and in particular the new entrants into the Eu look to use for example and leadership. Secondly america has been making increasing noises about totally fecking over our defense industry particularly the idea of legislation barring foreign companies from future defense programs which will hurt us as 90% (roughly) of US equipment has british parts (BAE being thier no3 or 4 ranked contractor) new issues over the technology transfer involved in the JSF aren't particularly encouraging.

2&4 i feel are simialr questions, local xenophobia is endemic to the majority of regions of europe, its just part of the culture of a continent of brothers that have been fighting each other since the dawn of civilisation. Today it boils down the freindly rivalry but hostility towards outsiders and holiday makers still manifests intself at odd intervals.

3. Well i suppose it is if you are a holiday maker and manage to ignore the massive council schemes of the 1930s to 70s that got bolted onto the villages.

5. not on your nelly: in terms of international power how can a member of the UN security council and the G8 be so and in terms of western culture well who else would have invented modern rock, pop and heavy metal oh yeah and who else would supply the world with sitcoms that are actually funny.

6. nope they have thier role to play, we proabably spend elss on them as we would on a figure head president. if they were insignificant why else woudl we care about the heir going to a useless yah university to study a useless degree (just freindly banter to those who attend or are allumni of St Andrews).

7. In some ways aye and in others nah, personally we should be going in to sort the mess in zimbabwae (or at least funding competant mercernaies through soemone other than mark thatcher). i was for iraq and still would be if blair had been up front i am very pissed at being lied to, the subsequent tratement of the BBC (who i will admit weren't 100% clean either) angered me even more.

8. i honestly belive that blair was trying to calm and giude GWB and perhaps he had no option than the colude with the lies (exposing the truth would not have doen any favours to an attempt to keep a lid on GWB). The lack of UK involvement likely woudl have made things worse as GWB would go it alone and the chaos of american controlled areas in iraq would now be even more spread out not to mention the fact the original campaign would have likely been harder without allies to lock down different sectors.

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))

Northern iireland is also a nation in Great Britain,
and yes we do have signifagance, but no, the royal family don't a say in what happens

Economically, it would be better not to join either, as our economy is very different from that where the Euro and USD are controlled. the Euro has already caused economic trouble through most of europe

Perhaps i should Clarify my position.

My order of preference.
1) Remain independent.
2) Join the U.S. (or allow the U.S. to join us.hehe)
3) Carve chunks of mainland britain off and sell them to the highest bidder.
4) Sell all our citizens to slavery.
5) Join Europe.

I hasten to point out that 3&4 are not serious reflections of what I would like to see happen, but are there to reflect how little I would like to join Europe.

Yes, lets start colonising again. America has virtually started so why dont we reclaim our Imperial Status?
Sod France and sod Europe.
No the French don't hate us, but we damn well sure hate them.
The Monarchy is not insignificant, but then again it is not completely all powerful, I say if it's not broke don't fix it.
Scotland can't invade us, because we control their regiments.
Wales is not a separate country it is part of Great Britain.
Have England join the U.S? Have it turned into the 51st state? I'd rather lick my own arsehole than see that happen.

RULE BRITANNIA!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1) england should be independant, don't join americans, and don't join europe
2) er, yeh, they REALLY hate us, but i think they're starting to be nicer
3) britain is not 'quaint', it's full of drug abusers, prostitutes, and cockneys
4) the english cannot be invaded by the scottish or welsh, we control their army's
5) Britain is VERY significant
6) The monarchy is insignificant from a political point of view, but then, look how much cash it brings in from tourism
7) i don't think britain interferes too much
8) Britain does not 'suck up' to america at all, Tony Blaire does, and everyone has to do what he says :(

1) england should be independant, don't join americans, and don't join europe
Britain. Not England. It is like refering to the US as California.
3) britain is not 'quaint', it's full of drug abusers, prostitutes, and cockneys Well, maybe London is ;)
4) the english cannot be invaded by the scottish or welsh, we control their army's
Their army's what? [sorry, being needlessly pedantic]
6) The monarchy is insignificant from a political point of view, but then, look how much cash it brings in from tourism
Do you have proof that it is the Monarchy that brings in the tourists?

Why do we dislike you...no i mean why do we hate you? How many bloody jobs have you scrapped in Scotland?
How many factories have been closed?
How much of scotlands oil is spent in Scotland?
Why was gaelic banned in scottish schools?
Why do you think you have a right to win the football world cup every year?
Why do you think you are still some big glorious nation?

Sorry but my parents brought me up to hate the english and i will bring my children up to hate england. You continually ****** us up and I've had enough. ALBA GU BRAGH

The monarchy? 9/10... sorry 10/10 people in scotland hate them. It cost us £1 million to guard the englis.. i mean british monarchy when the ****holes come up here. If scotland was independent we wouldn't have been dragged off to a pointless iraq war.

Scotland should build a wall along the border. Anyone that wants to get north should be shot with a duble barrel shotgun.

Ahh... That feels better ;)

Why do we dislike you...no i mean why do we hate you? How many bloody jobs have you scrapped in Scotland?
Me? None.
How many factories have been closed?
No idea. But Scotland isn't the only region to have factories closed. But why are you blaming the English for this? Why not the factory owners?
How much of scotlands oil is spent in Scotland? No idea, do you?
Why was gaelic banned in scottish schools?No idea, why?
Why do you think you have a right to win the football world cup every year?The English don't, considering that the World cup is every 4 years. Bit jealous of the neighbour footie team are we?
Why do you think you are still some big glorious nation?Well, I have a billion + population, brilliant economy, good social right and civil liberties.

Sorry but my parents brought me up to hate the english and i will bring my children up to hate england. You continually ****** us up and I've had enough. ALBA GU BRAGHShut up, and stop frothing at the mouth. Sort your self out, and don't blame others for everything bad, and don't act as is you are the only people who go through bad times. Hate is never good, it poisons the soul.

The monarchy? 9/10... sorry 10/10 people in scotland hate them.
Err, no. As much as I would liek the Scots to hate unanimously hate the monarchy, I know several Scots who like the monarchy.


It cost us £1 million to guard the englis.. i mean british monarchy when the ****holes come up here. If scotland was independent we wouldn't have been dragged off to a pointless iraq war.

Scotland should build a wall along the border. Anyone that wants to get north should be shot with a duble barrel shotgun.
I suppose it would do wonders for the economy

Ahh... That feels better ;)
Remember, breath ;)

gaelic was banned in school because the english wanted every one to speak english. Didn't work mind, thousands of people speak gaelic and scots.

Nah i'm not jealous of your football team. A 2-2 draw with austria and the manager should be sacked. Tut tut.

Anyway speak to any scottish 16 year old. We all hate or dislike england and want scottish independence. Say good bye to your oil income

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?

I would rather britian joined Europe since it is in europe geographically and has real history with europe. i don't want to see britain becoming a sub state of the USA like puorto rico. Britain is really loseing its traditions and is shifting and turning into a minime america. Britain is economically strong and contributes huge sums of money towards the EU. in the longrun its investments in the EU will pay off and the EU trade agreements itself will make more money for britain, not the north american trade agreement. Britain also has a massive influence in europe and sadly is slowly losing its respect as it shifts towards the USA (especially over the Iraq war where blair followed bush into this catastrophe against the will of his own ppl mind you)

2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?

NO THE FRENCH DO NOT HATE THEN ENGLISH! I LIVE about 1 KM away from the boarder with FRANCE and no one ever shows any hatred of the british.. it is mainly the british that hate the french for an unknown reason.

3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.

Depends where you go!

4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate country in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish?

All the nationalities in britain get along well together, there is only the occasional englishman, scotsman, and welshmans jokes from what i know of. we all have to live on the same small island we do have to get along and i do not believe there will be an invasion from scotland...

5) Is Britain insignificant?

as explained before in 1. It is not, britain had an empire and still has massive influence all over the world and in the commonwelth nations. without the empire communications would be very different. even today it is still an economic powerhouse and a military power. Britain shaped the globe with the empire, was the dominent power for well over one hundred years, and has never lost a major naval engagement for almost 300 years. About 75 per-cent of all technological items in one's house were developed by brits (got this info off a high ranking friend in the foreing office in london) and that includes the TV and Radio.

6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
as said before, the monarchy is useless but it is sometimes fun to gork at the incestial relationships and what they produce. the queen may be head of state but has no power. the monarchy are very insignificant but we keep them for heratage reasons.

7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?

Britain does not interfere much in other nation's buisness at all.. i never hear britain frequently mentioned on the news.

8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

bah the cultures are becoming more similar year by year on obviouse point (money making). the government does suck up alot the US gov that is obviouse.. look at iraq...and the situation with nato and the EU... britons thenselvs just want to be left to make their own decision but respect america just as much as the rest of europe, no fear or admiration involved, just we've had crappy governments since the 70's... hope the lib dems have a go..

My **** we all get on. Scotland hates england. ALBA GU BRAGH. Freedom for Scotland

And scotland dosen't hate the french. When we were independent we fought against the english allied with the french. So we like them

If we are going to get into arguments about Scotland and England, what about the bloody West Lothian question?

My **** we all get on. Scotland hates england. ALBA GU BRAGH. Freedom for Scotland

Well, Lorraine Kelly seems to like the english.

But seriously, you say you are going to teach your children to hate the english. Is hatred really a good gift to pass on to your children? What would you do if your daughter wanted to marry an englishman?

I know you are only 16 and you are probably totally unaware of what the world is 'really' like.... but you must be aware that what the world does NOT need is a fuedal sense of hatred being instilled in the youth.

gaelic was banned in school because the english wanted every one to speak english. Didn't work mind, thousands of people speak gaelic and scots.Great. But that was/is History not current affairs. Few (if any were alive) in England were alive back then. It is pointless to hate people due to circumstance of birth.

Nah i'm not jealous of your football team. A 2-2 draw with austria and the manager should be sacked. Tut tut.My football team :confused:

Anyway speak to any scottish 16 year old. We all hate or dislike england and want scottish independence. Say good bye to your oil income
Right, because I assume that Scot independence will be led by a few spotty teens. :rolleyes:

And don't act as if I am the oppressor. I'm half Irish goddammit!

And scotland dosen't hate the french. When we were independent we fought against the english allied with the french. So we like them
Here, have a tranx.

NB: Learn to differenciate between Medieval history and current affairs.

Also, I know a fair few Scots. Non of them are like you. I guess it is because they are older and more mature.

Northern iireland is also a nation in Great Britain,


No it's bloody not.

correct. it's in the united kingdom but not great britain.

correct. it's in the united kingdom but not great britain.

Good to see that someone else is paying attention to these things.

I hear that it isn't much freer than the US and it does have a monarch, which is bad.

North Caledonian: I suggest you to talk to some of our fellow scots from outside of your obviously closed and restricted social group, you might be very surprised by what you find in regards attitudes towards the english and our continueing part to be played in the great nation of the united kingdom.

Since you are so fond of historical reasons for your arguements perhaps you might care to refelct on the fact that soem of the earliest scottish regiments existed solely for the reason of fighting the french, recriutment was, from all that can tell, not terribly difficult. Scottish units were also generally speaking very keen to engage the french throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
The reason the French like us is more or less the same reason pretty much every other country udner the sun likes us, we are unusual (what with there being a whole 4-5million of us) and have a reputation of either being happy drunks or generally nice quiet people. These traits are aided by the fact that by some miracle our historical and cultureal artifacts remain clean of taints of oppression and agression or borish nationalism.
Englsih people are exactly the same as us its just that due to unfrotuante circumstance they get tarred with entirely the wrong brush. Yes some english are indeed loutish in thier behavior and this does attract the attention of the media but then we look at your posts and find exactly the same thoughts and behavior.

North Caledonian: I suggest you to talk to some of our fellow scots from outside of your obviously closed and restricted social group, you might be very surprised by what you find in regards attitudes towards the english and our continueing part to be played in the great nation of the united kingdom.




I believe they are called turn coats and traitors against there nation.

Scottish people fought for freedom from the english for 100's of years, claiming love for the english is an insult to the heritage and history of the country.

I hear that it isn't much freer than the US and it does have a monarch, which is bad.
Is that any different to an elected dictator?

However, never having been to the US, I couldn't say which is 'freer'

the US's only real ally now.
Wrong... NATO.

I believe they are called turn coats and traitors against there nation.

Bull shit. You do realise that during the Empire days Scots felt that they were an important part of the Union (and they were) and were proud of the fact. Just think of all the great Scots from that period and how they helped to make Britain stronger.

And for all NCs bitching the Scots took to English like a duck to water.

Scottish people fought for freedom from the english for 100's of years, claiming love for the english is an insult to the heritage and history of the country.
And they also fought side by side with the English for centuries and helped put together the Empire. Claiming that they always hated the English is an insult to the heritage and history of the country.

Britain is England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

Ireland is NOT NOT NOT part of Britain.

find myself wanting a united states of Europe, where more people are involved in such decisions, where real democacy is nearly found.
No federal superstates are never good at being healthy democracies. I support the idea of the EU as an alliance and economic union, but not as one country.

Is that any different to an elected dictator?

However, never having been to the US, I couldn't say which is 'freer'

Let me put it this way: Gay marriage, prostitution, marihuana, and many forms of genuine hentai are illegal.

Let me put it this way: Gay marriage, prostitution, marihuana, and many forms of genuine hentai are illegal.
I would hazard a guess that we are freer then.

Ireland is NOT NOT NOT part of Britain.


That is to say that Northen Ireland is part of the UK, whereas EIRE is not.

I would hazard a guess that we are freer then.

I think Britain is probably 'freer' or at least more left-wing (not that I'm a commie or hippie or anything).

As for the monarch, she doesn't actually control the country or anything.

That is to say that Northen Ireland is part of the UK, whereas EIRE is not.
Part of the UK, but not part of Britain.

Part of the UK, but not part of Britain.

...but both are part of the British Isles...

All the nationalities in britain get along well together, there is only the occasional englishman, scotsman, and welshmans jokes from what i know of.



HAH! sorry, who are you? do you even live in Britan, or on this planet? Have you had earplugs and blinders on since the day you were born?
You obviously have never made a proper visit to Wales, about 75% of Welsh people hate the english, and the other 25% were either born in england, or have very close relations with someone who's english.

As for the monarch, she doesn't actually control the country or anything.But why haven't you gotten rid of her yet?

But why haven't you gotten rid of her yet?

I've been busy! I can't do everything

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))

1) Generally, I'd prefer a kind of United States of Europe. Seems like I'm in the minority, though. Anyway, economically it's better to stay exactly where we are. Close ties with Europe, unique relationship with the US, our own curency that we control. The ideal situation would be independance, but not so much that we're completely on our own.

2)One nation can't hate another. The french I've met are very friendly, and it's always seemed to be more us hating them.

3)Excellently quaint laws. Within certain times and in special circumstances it's legal to shoot a welshman trespassing on your land. Also, we should all be spending at least once a week practicing with a longbow. But in the sense that we all drink tea on the lawn while watching cricket on the village green, no. Pretty similar to any more economically developed state, really.

4)Northern Ireland too, although the situation there is complicated. Anyway, all the internal countries seem to get on pretty well, although there are many Welsh and Scottish stereotypes, i.e. Welsh people having intimate relationships with sheep, Scots, red-headed kilt-wearing huge bastards looking for a fight. The idea that deep-fried mars bar is a delicacy over there. Certain amount of resentment towards England, centre of power, which is inevitable really. And there's very little chance of a scotch invasion, really.

5)The Commonwealth still gives us some international influence. I'd say that although we're insignificant compared to the US, we're about as significant as any other Western European country.

6)Outdated, definitely. Queen holds no real power any more, she's just a figurehead. Wouldn't mind getting rid of the whole thing, but again I seem to be in a minority, not least because it attracts the tourists like nothing else.

7)No idea about this one. If the british aren't allowed to do it, why is anyone else?

8)During the reigns of Thatcher and Reagan, he usually followed her lead. Now the situation is reversed, everyone here complains. The Iraq War should have been only a US blunder, though. Then again, I doubt we could've maintained such a beneficial relationship without backing it. The UK looks like it's constantly on a tightrope strung between its European neighbours and its American offspring. Can't appease one without angering the other, and we need them both.

Disclaimer. These are only my views, I may be horrifically biased, uninformed, and just plain wrong in any one of these statements. If you see anything particularly outrageous above, it was probably a joke.

Also, small amendment. Northern Ireland=UK. England, Scotland, Wales=Britain

The US helped us in WWI and WWII, even though it took the sinking of the Lusitania (WWI) and the threat of Hitler getting Mexico to invade the US (WWII), which strengthened our friendship no end.

Just FYI, it was Japan attacking us in WWII that got us involved in that war. Hitler declared war on us so we really didn't have any other choice.

The Mexico thing was the Zimmerman Telegram. That was part of WWI also.

This has turned into a big thread and I haven't read all the posts, so forgive me if I repeat. And this is MY OPINION, not a statement of fact.

1) I feel Britain would be better served by joining an alliance with its nearest neighbours - we share far more trade with Europe and we wouldn't want to be an outpost of a more distant power mere miles from another great power. Also, I think the UK has a good deal more in common with its European neighbours than the anti-EU lobby would have you think. Britain wouldn't vote for Bush, but it would vote for Schroder (if either were British). Similarly we have a lot in common with the other constitutional monarchies on the continent.That said, I should point out that I love the US and a good part of my family is American.

2) Some do. Far from all. Thousands of French people take their holidays in the UK and thousands of Brits take their holidays in France; many thousands of British families are friends with French families. Whatever rivalry there is between us has diminished to the level of rivalry felt between some sports teams - passionate, sometimes even violent, but not important.

3) Is Britain really 'quaint'? Yes. We have beautiful countryside and picturesque villages and historic towns, plus odd customs and neolithic landmarks. But Britain is also one of the most high-tech countries outside the US and Japan - London ranks second only to NY for wireless internet traffic. A lot of Britain is extremely modern, but we've managed to save a lot of our heritage.

4) The UK has one army and hasn't had internal strife since the late 1700s! The Scots and Welsh have measures of independence. And you forgot to mention Northern Ireland, the Channel Isles and the Isle of Man,
the other elements of the UK.

5) Are we insignificant? No, but we're far from being as important as the US or China or Russia or the other really big states. We have a security council seat, our military is impressive and mobile, and our diplomatic position is broadly respected, if not agreed with. We gain influence from our close relationship with the US. We're as significant as I think we should be.

6) Politically, yes. Nationally, no. It still exerts tremendous power and influence over the people, but not the state (to any great degree). I'm a republican and would like to see it phased out, but that's a debate for another time.

7) Presently, yes, we interfere too much. I think we should restrict out endeavours to former colonies and Continental Europe, and I oppose most military intervention. "Former colonies" includes the US and Hong Kong.

8) There is a huge amount of mutual respect between the US and the UK. I think we cannot side with the US enough if the US is right - in Afghanistan, we were right to join in, I think Iraq was a mistake. It's not fear of the US - what do we have to fear? We're no threat to you, at worst we're a friend waiting to be won back. UK politicians feel that the UK gets global influence and respect from being close to US because you'll listen to us - that's why Blair has been so badly embarrassed by the US ignoring his pleas over UN involvement in Iraq and over Palestine. But I think the most important thing to remember is that the UK is always listening to the US, but every now and then it wouldn't hurt the US to listen to the UK a bit more.

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))
1) We don't have anything in common really with Europe being on a seperate Island and definently don't want the French and Germans making laws that can affect us as for joining the US screw that i'd still choose Europe we didn't even want to go into bloody iraq that was purely a Blair-Based decision.
2)We fought the French for 100 years and yeah we kinda hate them and they kinda hate us but so does the rest of Europe excpet the Portugese.
3)Not going to degnify that with an anwser.
4)We get on fine mostly except the odd person who makes a joke here and there but who doesn't, oh and the people in Scotland that wanna be independant. (Yeah ok like thats going to help you out).
5)Britain is still one of the 5 main countries in the UN along with the US, France, Russia and China so will never be insigfinicant politically despite our size.
6)Politically yes but commercially still brings in the crowds good for tourist industry.
7)We dont compared to the Americans enough said.
8)Personally I think its BLAIR and the fucking labor government that sucks up we can be independant and also have Europe as a fall back. The only reason we really have decent enough relations with the US is because of closer culture than the US has with say France or Germany.

But why haven't you gotten rid of her yet?

About £80 billion worth in tourism a year is why ;)

About £80 billion worth in tourism a year is why ;)

So you're claiming that the only reason that tourists visit the UK is because of the royal family, eh?

So you're claiming that the only reason that tourists visit the UK is because of the royal family, eh?
I visited Britain this summer for reasons that had nothing to do with the royal family... I did visit Windsor but it wasn't really all that great.

So you're claiming that the only reason that tourists visit the UK is because of the royal family, eh?

No, I'm saying that all the various things related to the Royal family generate that much.

So you're claiming that the only reason that tourists visit the UK is because of the royal family, eh?
Why oh why is a sex pistols song coming to mind...

No, I'm saying that all the various things related to the Royal family generate that much.

http://www.culture.gov.uk/tourism/default.htm

"The UK Tourism Industry's Annual turnover is £76 billion, or over 4% of GDP."

"86% of England's tourism income comes from domestic visitors."

Make of that what you will.

Why oh why is a sex pistols song coming to mind...

A cheap holiday in other peoples' misery?

:p

1) No, they are a part of Europe, historicly, cultural and geographical. An important cultural factor. And the UK is a netto receiver of EU money so it will cost a lot of jobs in the industrial agriculture and in the industry. I think they are better of when they still receive this money then when they don't.

2) No, why should they? BTW, most foreigners that buy real estate and immigrate to France are Brittish. Perhaps some should integrate a bit more there instead of living in their own collonies (complete villages are sometimes in foreign hands in S. France). But most are very decent people and well integrated with kids in French schools aso.

3) Don't understand the word "Quaint" as a Dutch speaker.

4) Independancy? It is up to the Brits to decide this, but why not since they are the only country in Europe that has own sport teams for Wales, Scotland, N. Ireland and England (rugby, football aso.).

5) No

6) No opinion

7) The line is Iraq. But they act well in the world when it's about helping the Unicef and where a loyal partner that helped a lotin former Yugoslavia.

8) Too much.

If the Royal family benefit our tourism industry so much, why don't we relocate them? London is big and beautiful and exciting enough to attract tourists without the Royals, so let's move them somewhere that needs the money, so these thousands of tourists who flock to be near them can bring their wealth to ... Liverpool, say.

Of course the Royals don't bring tourists. Toursist like historic buildings and a bit of paegentry. We could switch to a republic tomorrow without the slightest impact on our tourism industry, just as long as we kept trooping the colour and changing the guards.

To put it another way: do you think we should retain the apex of our constitutional pyramid simply because it's a tourist attraction? If you do, you have warped notions of statehood.

Nice thoughts and you also think about the economy ;) But I really have no opinion about your royals. But I know that cost a lot of taxpayers money (like my king to) and that Queenie is one of the richest women on this planet.
I am for a Republic in my own country but as a non Brit, I am not well placed to ask for a republic in the UK, it is really up to you.

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))

1. No, no, no and more no. For what reason pray tell should we join the US? Historically speaking our history has been entangled for far longer with Europe than it has America. We only have a very short stretch of water seperating us from the main continent; and have none of you thought about the regeneration money that the EU has granted us?

2. :D Sorry had to grin. It's more of a love-hate relationship really. I went on a French exchange trip earlier in the year, and the family I stayed with and myself debated this question. They are the Frogs and we are the Ros bif. ;)

3. Define quaint?

4. Uh, I very much doubt the Scots are going to invade the English, just as I doubt the English would ever invade the Scots. It just wouldn't make sense. As for devolution...I can understand why the Scots want it, I mean our histories weren't even joined until Elizabeth I died and her heir was the Scottish monarch James (I apologise profusely for not remembering the number. I think it was sixth but someone feel free to correct me). However I would like to know how they would support their economy if they gained independence.

5. Insignificant I doubt it. We still possess the British Commonwealth, our own military forces, we are members of the UN security council, Nato, the 4th most successful economy in the world and our politicians are moving up in Europe. I would say that we are not insignificant.

6. No. Not by a long shot. Not if you look into how much power the monarch can wield if he or she wished to. For example the monarch retains the right to veto any act of parliament, remove the prime minister from office, placing in power their own chosen minister and they remain head of the Church of England. Furthermore the monarchy also acts an ambassador for the country; amongst many other things. If that is insignificant I would wish to know how.

7. Britain walks a fine line between interfering too much and too little in other countries affairs. In matters concerning Commonmwealth countries we have every right to attempt to aid them, although I would not say interfere as that would not be appreciated by those countries. And before someone brings in the whole Iraq debatable I would just like to point out that it was the Allies after World War II (I can't remember the precise dates) that helped place saddam Hussein into power in the first place to help balance the powers in that region so we did have a right to enter Iraq. However that doesn't make it correct. Hmm think I'll shut up over this since I think I'm being rather confusing.

8. Britain does side too much with America. We are a member state of the European Union and should therefore support that which we are a member of than something which we are not. As for being scared of America who are you trying to kid? *grins* The only thing I ever hear about round here is how the colonies have once again got themselves into a mess. Indeed I have relations who live in America and everytime we meet up, first question out of my Dads mouth is 'how are the colonies then?' :) As for mutual respect I can't speak for the American people, (although I do know some just as I know French, German, Australian and Chinese people) I would not presume to say mutual respect especially considering the amount of bad mouthing I hear, especially in school, who are sick of the Americans treating the world as theirs. Now that is there opinion not mine so don't go flame-grilling me. ;)

all you people who say theres only one army in the UK, well theres 1 army in Great Britain, and 3 or 4 in Northern Ireland. Englands more at risk from the IRA than from Scotland.

brutain more like airstrip one!!!

If the Royal family benefit our tourism industry so much, why don't we relocate them? London is big and beautiful and exciting enough to attract tourists without the Royals, so let's move them somewhere that needs the money, so these thousands of tourists who flock to be near them can bring their wealth to ... Liverpool, say.

Of course the Royals don't bring tourists. Toursist like historic buildings and a bit of paegentry. We could switch to a republic tomorrow without the slightest impact on our tourism industry, just as long as we kept trooping the colour and changing the guards.

To put it another way: do you think we should retain the apex of our constitutional pyramid simply because it's a tourist attraction? If you do, you have warped notions of statehood.
No I say keep what has worked for hundreds of years because it still works better than any other system in the world, it does bring tourist into the country, it turns a profit, the head of state attends more offcial duties than any other head of state and who the hells wants to say they met the US prsisdent (bob or who ever he is this month) when they can say they met the Queen.
And if we became a republic tomorrow it would change many things, some small some large. For a start we would stop being the only country in the world that does no have to state on it's stamps the country of origin and I would up sticks and move to Oz sooner rather than later.

I spent five years living in the UK, and there's nothing wrong with them as a people that isn't wrong with anyone else.

I don't think they should have to join up with anyone. Let them be whatever they want to be. They will anyway, no matter what you or anyone else thinks. I'll be interested to see how much joy the EU has with them when they try to make them take the dive 100%.

I think that the british isles are amazing for their arts. The television programming, music, film, and graphic design are just amazing, and there's at least one radio station which should be heard all over the world. There's substandard stuff there too, but most of it is above-par.

No I say keep what has worked for hundreds of years because it still works better than any other system in the world,

Proof?

How is it better then a Democratic Republic? Or an Anarchistic society?

it does bring tourists into the country,

Proof.

Note, proof that the Monarchy attracts the tourists. Not that tourists come.

it turns a profit,

How? Please do not include Crown land in this answer.

the head of state attends more offcial duties than any other head of state

Great, we're really getting value fo rmoney there :rolleyes:

and who the hells wants to say they met the US prsisdent (bob or who ever he is this month)

Cute.

when they can say they met the Queen.

Then we can brag to all our friends that we have met a stuck up noble who couldn't give a shit about any of us.

And if we became a republic tomorrow it would change many things, some small some large. For a start we would stop being the only country in the world that does no have to state on it's stamps the country of origin

[SIZE=7]OMG, Not the Stamps![/quote]
Please, there are some things more important then stamps in this world.

and I would up sticks and move to Oz sooner rather than later.
I can live with that.

4. Uh, I very much doubt the Scots are going to invade the English, just as I doubt the English would ever invade the Scots. It just wouldn't make sense. As for devolution...I can understand why the Scots want it, I mean our histories weren't even joined until Elizabeth I died and her heir was the Scottish monarch James (I apologise profusely for not remembering the number. I think it was sixth but someone feel free to correct me). However I would like to know how they would support their economy if they gained independence.

Sixth it was. On the final point about how an independent Scotland would support its economy: the same way Ireland does, or Denmark, or the Netherlands, or any other nation of comparable size, I suppose.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?))
Though economically Britain is more linked to Europe than the US. In the long-run Britain is going to join the Euro.
Probably as one of the last EU countries. The East Europeans are certainly doing it before.


2) Do the french REALLY hate the english??
Up to a certain point. The political class is partly seeing it as the trojan horse of the US in Europe.
But I think the hate in Britain against France is bigger than the other way around. And I think there are a lot of prejudices in Britain against "the continent".

3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.

No.

4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
That is an internal affair of Britain.

5) Is Britain insignificant?
No.
6) Is the monarchy insignificant??
No
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line???
No. I actually would like to see Britain playing a more active role in Europe. Blair wants that and he has a concept for it. The problem is that there are powerfull groups in Britain opposing a "Britain in Europe" and a Britain in the "centre of Europe and not at the side". If Britain could spring over that prejudice against European Integration it could play a leading role. Britain could force the end of the Franco-German leadership and establish a British-French-German trio if it decided to take actively part on European integration.


8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?
How much more could you side with the US? I really don´t know how that would be possible. I think you do side too much with it. And I think Britain respects the US more than the respect goes the other way around.
I see cultural reasons - the common language and anglo-saxon philosophy - playing a big role in the British foreign policy.

1. No, no, no and more no. For what reason pray tell should we join the US? Historically speaking our history has been entangled for far longer with Europe than it has America. We only have a very short stretch of water seperating us from the main continent; and have none of you thought about the regeneration money that the EU has granted us?
Probably because France was intransigent and opposed English rule about 700 years ago. After that England didn´t want to have anything to do with the continent - well at least not so much. It rather looked for territories overseas.
The US was one of it. Culturally it has a lot in common with Britain, even the same language.

So, for many people it looks like the Channel is wider than the Atlantic.
Though economically Britain is bound to Europe and benefits from the common European market.
And since I think that economic factors are more important than cultural factors I think that Britain is going to integrate fully in the EU, including the Euro. But it is going to need more time for it. That is ok.

Sixth it was. On the final point about how an independent Scotland would support its economy: the same way Ireland does, or Denmark, or the Netherlands, or any other nation of comparable size, I suppose.
Ireland however got a lot of funding from the EU. But at least they spent it efficently. So, they are not going to need it anymore in the future.

Ireland however got a lot of funding from the EU. But at least they spent it efficently. So, they are not going to need it anymore in the future.

True. And it took Ireland a long time to develop economically, for a variety of reasons. But basically there's nothing magical about the UK, or fundamentally flawed about Scotland, which means that Scotland couldn't survive outside the UK. For a start, we wouldn't have to endure interest rates and other forms of economic management that reflect the local economy of the south-east of England.

If Scotland ever did become independent there would no doubt be a protracted period of economic upheaval, both here and in the remainder of the UK. But I see no reason why Scotland could not be self-supporting, if not even better off, outside the metrocentric UK economy.

True. And it took Ireland a long time to develop economically, for a variety of reasons. But basically there's nothing magical about the UK, or fundamentally flawed about Scotland, which means that Scotland couldn't survive outside the UK. For a start, we wouldn't have to endure interest rates and other forms of economic management that reflect the local economy of the south-east of England.
If Scotland ever did become independent there would no doubt be a protracted period of economic upheaval, both here and in the remainder of the UK. But I see no reason why Scotland could not be self-supporting, if not even better off, outside the metrocentric UK economy.
Firstly I don´t know the structure of the scotish economy.
Seconly it is an internal affair of Britain. I won´t comment on it.

Firstly I don´t know the structure of the scotish economy.
Seconly it is an internal affair of Britain. I won´t comment on it.

Well, firstly, we have a lot of picturesque ruins, where industry used to be before Thatcher got to work... there's money to be made in industrial heritage tourism, I tell you! On a more practical note, there's the remains of the oil industry; there's whisky; there's a (re-)expanding publishing sector; there's a highly educated population and a raft of high-quality academic institutions; there's a strong financial sector; there's huge opportunities for generating and exporting power (rather too many nuclear reactors for our needs, massive hydroelectric potential, the longest coastline in Europe, and oodles of windy MAMBA* country), which the rest of the UK is going to be sorely short of fairly soon; all the midges you can eat; and so on.

Secondly, hell, feel free. It's not like I don't comment on everybody else's internal affairs. :)



*MAMBA -- Miles And Miles of Bugger All

Well, firstly, we have a lot of picturesque ruins, where industry used to be before Thatcher got to work... there's money to be made in industrial heritage tourism, I tell you! On a more practical note, there's the remains of the oil industry; there's whisky; there's a (re-)expanding publishing sector; there's a highly educated population and a raft of high-quality academic institutions; there's a strong financial sector; there's huge opportunities for generating and exporting power (rather too many nuclear reactors for our needs, massive hydroelectric potential, the longest coastline in Europe, and oodles of windy MAMBA* country), which the rest of the UK is going to be sorely short of fairly soon; all the midges you can eat; and so on.
Secondly, hell, feel free. It's not like I don't comment on everybody else's internal affairs. :)
*MAMBA -- Miles And Miles of Bugger All
How important was coal minining in Scotland in the past?
I know that Britain used to be the leading country in it.
Though it has become too expansive. The same is the case for Germany though we are still the largest brown coal producer in the world. Price per unit SKE is 150 Euros though and on the global market 50 Euros. Government needs to cut down on subsidising it. But it is doing it too slowly. It was cut down in East Germany (which used to get 70% of its energy from coal) but in West Germany the decision to cut it down was compromised due to union protests in 1996.
I envy you for Thatcher who did all those cuts.
Subsidies are evil, causing false allocations of money on the market.
I personally am a supporter of nuclear technology. I see it as an instrument to decrease our dependency on oil. Though in Germany I´m in a minority position with that. Most of our reactors are standing in South Germany.
I know that Thatcher was a supporter of nuclear technology and that this was a point where she would have liked to follow the French example. They have nuclear technology as their main source of energy.
Tourism certainly is a prospect for economic development. Loch Ness and Edinborough are certainly spots to draw attention to. And tourism is a growing sector world-wide.
I don´t know how it stands with the oil and gas resources within the British North Sea. Norway at least has a hugh oil industry sector and the Netherlands a huge gas sector. Don´t know how much is in your waters but they should be something left still?
Well: and wind energy may be a good prospect for Britain as a whole since it is an island and is really not lacking wind.
I don´t feel able to comment further as I don´t know Scottland - in contrast to parts of England and Ireland. But I assume that your food may be a bit better than the English food. I understand that England doesn´t want to let you go though. There are a lot of prospects for Scotland for the future as I see it.

but I assume that your food may be a bit better than the English food. As a Scot, if anything our diet is worse than english food, we in Scotland have the highest incidence of heart disease in the western world. I understand that England doesn´t want to let you go though. I dont know where you get this idea from, there are several political parties in Scotland that advocate independence from the Union , however they are consistently thrashed in elections by Unionist parties. Its not a question of our English partners not wanting to let us go, its more the fact that the Scottish people have voted again and again for the Union as opposed to independece.

As a Scot, if anything our diet is worse than english food, we in Scotland have the highest incidence of heart disease in the western world..
What is the case for it: alcoholism?

I dont know where you get this idea from, there are several political parties in Scotland that advocate independence from the Union , however they are consistently thrashed in elections by Unionist parties. ..
I get this idea from Northern Ireland which has of course a split population. And I don´t think that the UK government wants Northern Ireland to leave (even if their would be a majority for it).
Its not a question of our English partners not wanting to let us go, its more the fact that the Scottish people have voted again and again for the Union as opposed to independece.
If you don´t want it yourself why bother me with it. I´ve said that it is an internal affair of the UK and that I don´t konw much about it.

K, i've not really read the rest of the thread, but feel the need to answer. I'm typing from Kilmarnock, about 20 miles outside of Glasgow, and am of Scots birth.

What follows are my opinions, just that.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?

My personal politics lead me to believe that theres no grand problem with the EU, other than the usual beaurocratic nonsense.
If we have to join someone, the EU would be my preferred option.

2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?

No, The English typically hate the French.
The Scots have good history with them.
Can't speak for the other two nations, though i believe they don't really give a toss.

3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.

No. In places the buildings are quaint, the people mostly aren't.

4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?

Oh, hell yeh, i'd love to invade england, myself :D Yes we should have independence, though we should stop spending the Gross National Product of a third world country on ugly government buildings.

5) Is Britain insignificant?

No.

6) Is the monarchy insignificant?

Aside from a grand old tourist trap or three, yeh.

7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?

Stop bending over when bush gets a war jonesin' and i'll be mostly happy.

8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

See no. 7.

How important was coal minining in Scotland in the past?
I know that Britain used to be the leading country in it.
Though it has become too expansive. The same is the case for Germany though we are still the largest brown coal producer in the world. Price per unit SKE is 150 Euros though and on the global market 50 Euros. Government needs to cut down on subsidising it. But it is doing it too slowly. It was cut down in East Germany (which used to get 70% of its energy from coal) but in West Germany the decision to cut it down was compromised due to union protests in 1996.
I envy you for Thatcher who did all those cuts.
Subsidies are evil, causing false allocations of money on the market.
I personally am a supporter of nuclear technology. I see it as an instrument to decrease our dependency on oil. Though in Germany I´m in a minority position with that. Most of our reactors are standing in South Germany.
I know that Thatcher was a supporter of nuclear technology and that this was a point where she would have liked to follow the French example. They have nuclear technology as their main source of energy.
Tourism certainly is a prospect for economic development. Loch Ness and Edinborough are certainly spots to draw attention to. And tourism is a growing sector world-wide.
I don´t know how it stands with the oil and gas resources within the British North Sea. Norway at least has a hugh oil industry sector and the Netherlands a huge gas sector. Don´t know how much is in your waters but they should be something left still?
Well: and wind energy may be a good prospect for Britain as a whole since it is an island and is really not lacking wind.
I don´t feel able to comment further as I don´t know Scottland - in contrast to parts of England and Ireland. But I assume that your food may be a bit better than the English food. I understand that England doesn´t want to let you go though. There are a lot of prospects for Scotland for the future as I see it.

Coal mining was an important part of the Scottish economy, as was the steel industry, as was the shipbuilding industry. These were attacked by Thatcher, not because they were subsidised (although -- like every other country in Europe, and like the USA -- they were to a greater or lesser extent) but because they were bastions of Trades Unionism, and because Thatcher had swallowed the Tory lounge-bar political philosophy that "what Britain needs is a bloody good dose of unemployment". In short, she was motivated by political ideology, not economic sense. She certainly showed no reluctance to continue to subsidise UK farmers (Tory voters, generally), or the UK arms industry (which employed her son and to which her gin-sodden husband owed much of his fortune). Thatcher transformed Scotland, and we have the sink estates, the shattered communities, the homelessness, and the drugs problems to prove it. There is doubtless a need for economic realism, but there is also a need to manage a society in a sensible manner -- not just go nuts with an axe and to hell with the consequences.

On a happier note, her son's in pokey and she'll soon be dead. :)

Most of the UK's North Sea oil reserves are within what would be Scottish waters were Scotland an independent nation. Although supplies there and on the atlantic edge will last for some time yet, peak production was passed some time ago and the profits have long ago been pissed up the wall on tax cuts for the rich and on buying dodgy US nuclear missiles which probably don't work and which we can never use anyway.

Scotland does have the potential to become a major exporter of power, much of it from renewable sources. There's a lot of room up here and not many people.

Scottish cuisine is famed worldwide, for many reasons. (ahem!) It's not a high point, though, to be honest. It could be vastly improved by a more sensible (i.e. unsubsidised) approach to farming, land management, and indeed land ownership in general.

Finally, it's not really a question of whether or not England "wants to let us go". England is just as much a subunit of the United Kingdom as Scotland is, and isn't "holding on" to Scotland. Scotland voted to form the Union (at least, a handful of unelected nobles voted to join the Union) in 1707. I see no reason why we couldn't vote to dissolve it again. It's entirely possible. Whether or not it's practical or desireable is a different matter.

EDIT: for reference it is probably worth pointing out that the main Scottish independence party, the SNP, regularly receives between 25% and 33% of the vote -- a minority, but a significantly large minority. The SNP are the official opposition in the Scottish parliament. This is not a trivial non-issue in Scotland.

What is the case for it: alcoholism? Alcohol is a factor, but also the fat rich, nurition poor diet consisting of large quantities of fryed food//lower grade cuts of meat, low vegetable consumption in comparison to our neighbours and of course , what is fast becoming a bane of all industrialised societies , a sedentary lifestyle


I get this idea from Northern Ireland which has of course a split population. And I don´t think that the UK government wants Northern Ireland to leave (even if their would be a majority for it). The majority of the population of Northern Ireland , presently casts their vote for unionist parties- however at present the population of nationalist//republicans is increasing faster than the population of loyalist//unionists, hence one day in the near future the majority of Northern Ireland will probably vote for parties that support the reunification of Ireland- at that point negotiations to reunify the Island politically will begin.

If you don´t want it yourself why bother me with it. Because you saw fit to bother me with your statement that "england doesnt want to let you (scotland) go. I´ve said that it is an internal affair of the UKYes you have, and yet you still commented on it leading me to respond to your comments and that I don´t konw much about it.
Indeed you dont"know much about it" I did think I was being helpful in correcting your erroneous ideas regarding this "internal matter of the UK" in future I will respect your wish to remain ignorant and not bother you with the truth when you make statements revealing your lack of knowledge.
Peace.
Edit:tided up quotes

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))

1) Hope the UK does join the EU totally.
2) We have ancient rivalries going back 1000 years. But we only bitch at each other. No real hatred.
3)Well, just have someone go into london or manchester and say that to a local. Sure they'll get q quaint reply.
4) Wales is not its own country. I'm sure this has already been mentioned. We all get on well but there are internal rivalries. think of it as friendly competition. No hatred that I've ever seen. Being half british and living there all my life, I don't see why any part should have independence. Not as if any group is persecuted. All equal.
5)Britain is less significant than it was in the past. But has one of the worlds top armies/economies and is a nuclear power. Also thanks to our empire building days we have a lot of international pull for a small country.
6) No comment. Don't really see how countries with no monarchy are really better off. Think of them as mascots
7)Personally I think they should do more.
8)We think of ourselves as very moral (whether true or not). English have a thing about fighting the good fight. and we have an aggressive culture.

IMO

It is really rather hard to say, bottom line that the Monarchy in Britain is insignificant.

Sure, most of the royal prerogative has been passed to the PM but it still maintains a political role, not least as a check upon the government. You only need to read a Thatcher biography to see how much she ws reigned in at times by the dissaproval of the queen.

On an economic basis, i dont know the exact figures but it has been proved that they do generate income. They also raise a hell of a lot of money for charity, last year Charlie raised over £100 million for various charities.

You can talk about their role as ambassadors and the presteige they still have with other nations. They do a lot to improve relations, part of which of course is due to the crazy interbreeding that went on with most of Europe's royal families, for example, did you know that the DoE, as well as being Greek is a Prince of Denmark?

Sure, the system should be reformed and the royal list dramatically cut down but it would be wrong to say that the monarchy in Britain is insignificant.
Bare in mind im speaking as a socialist who would like little more than the abolition of the class system in Britain and the monarchy.

Alcohol is a factor, but also the fat rich, nurition poor diet consisting of large quantities of fryed food//lower grade cuts of meat, low vegetable consumption in comparison to our neighbours and of course , what is fast becoming a bane of all industrialised societies , a sedentary lifestyle
A country with even worse food than England. Congratulation, hehe.


The majority of the population of Northern Ireland , presently casts their vote for unionist parties- however at present the population of nationalist//republicans is increasing faster than the population of loyalist//unionists, hence one day in the near future the majority of Northern Ireland will probably vote for parties that support the reunification of Ireland- at that point negotiations to reunify the Island politically will begin.
I´ve heard about this development: The demographic development speaks for a catholic dominated Northern Ireland in the future. Do the Unionists like this development? Certainly not.


Quote:
Originally Posted by Kybernetia
If you don´t want it yourself why bother me with it.
Because you saw fit to bother me with your statement that "england doesnt want to let you (scotland) go. .
Well: I believe in that statement. I don´t think England would like the end of the United Kingdom. England is the part of the UK with the highest population and with a huge distance with the biggest economic output. The UK is the fourth-largest economy of the world. But would it still be on that rank without Scottland? Would it still have acess to some resources like the oil in the Northern Sea?
I say that I wouldn´t like a part of my country declaring itself independent. I assume that it wouldn´t be liked in your country either. Or am I wrong with that assumption?
Just to make it clear: there is no part of it which is seriously considering it. But I wouldn´t like it if there would be one.
And isn´t Britain a national state? Since when have parts of a state the right to seperate from it? The US had even a civil war because of such an issue. And the willingness of Britain to led Ireland go was for a long time very limitted. So, I don´t think that England would like to see such a development if it would occur.



Indeed you dont"know much about it" I did think I was being helpful in correcting your erroneous ideas regarding this "internal matter of the UK" ...Peace.
Where have I said that there is a majority in Scotland wanting independence. I haven´t said so. I´m not very interesting in the local disputes within the UK. I´m sorry, but you are not the centre of the world. But I appreciate that you point out your opinion.

She certainly showed no reluctance to continue to subsidise UK farmers (Tory voters, generally), or the UK arms industry .
Every party has its base and has to care about it.


Most of the UK's North Sea oil reserves are within what would be Scottish waters were Scotland an independent nation. Although supplies there and on the atlantic edge will last for some time yet, peak production was passed some time ago .
Well there are still some reserves.



Scotland does have the potential to become a major exporter of power, much of it from renewable sources. There's a lot of room up here and not many people. . Iceland is a major energy exporter. But it really has a low population: 3 persons per square kilometer.


Scottish cuisine is famed worldwide, for many reasons. (ahem!) It's not a high point, though, to be honest. It could be vastly improved by a more sensible (i.e. unsubsidised) approach to farming, land management, and indeed land ownership in general..
It is actually the English one who is famous for it worldwide. Though if it is the same or even worse congratulations to it, hehe.

Finally, it's not really a question of whether or not England "wants to let us go". England is just as much a subunit of the United Kingdom as Scotland is, and isn't "holding on" to Scotland. Scotland voted to form the Union (at least, a handful of unelected nobles voted to join the Union) in 1707. I see no reason why we couldn't vote to dissolve it again. It's entirely possible. Whether or not it's practical or desireable is a different matter...
But is it possible to unilateral withdrawl from this treaty? I mean the UK is a state not an union of states?

EDIT: for reference it is probably worth pointing out that the main Scottish independence party, the SNP, regularly receives between 25% and 33% of the vote -- a minority, but a significantly large minority. The SNP are the official opposition in the Scottish parliament. This is not a trivial non-issue in Scotland..
Seems to be like the Lega Nord in Italy. They had the idea of an independent Northern Italy which they called Padania. But that wasn´t as successful at the end. Though the party has still some support and is part of the Italian government.

I don't want to generalize about an entire country based on my limited interactions with some of the people there, especially since I've never been to that country. Having said that, I like most of the people I've come in contact with from there. My two closest RPing allies are from that country, if I'm not mistaken.

>1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?

No. I think Britain belongs where it always has been - in Europe. Britain needs Europe as much as Europe needs it. Economic and political ideas can be used to both support and reject greater British integration within Europe. Economic and political ideas for Britain moving closer towards the USA make much less sense.

>2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?

No.

>3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.

No. Some bits are "posh". We don't all speak the same.

>4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.)

No. The United Kingdom of Great Britain is the "nation". England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are the "countries" which form the nation, the "UK". Wales is not a nation. Ireland itself is a Republic.

>How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry >about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?

No, we seem to get on fine mostly. There has not been severe tension since the late nineteenth century. There are still problems in Northern Ireland between people who want Northern Ireland to remain a part of the UK and those who would like to see it separated.

>5) Is Britain insignificant?

In some ways, many people regard themselves more "English" or "Scottish" or "Welsh" than "British". I was born in England and regard myself as British, out of preference.

>6) Is the monarchy insignificant?

Not in terms of the tourism it attracts but otherwise, it is not heavily significant. Perhaps siginificant also for media stories and certain formalities and state protocols.

>7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?

No. Scotland and Wales have their own assemblies (this came about through a process of "devolution", instigated by the Government in 1997). These countries now have more of a say in regional matters regarding social security and education but sovereignty lies within the UK so the "UK" still declares war, sets up Parliament etc.

>8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

A lot of mutual respect, as there is with all Western European democracies. I don't think Britain is scared of the military capability of the USA per se, but I am concerned about its military capacity with respect to other defencless or less-well endowed smaller states. Also, there was a little blatant sucking up by a certain Tony Blair. While I disagree with the stance of Britain towards continental Europe during the Afghanistan and Iraq crises, I understand why it was adopted.

While I disagree with the stance of Britain towards continental Europe during the Afghanistan and Iraq crises, I understand why it was adopted.
First of all there was no disagreement in Europe about the Afghanistan issue. Secondly there was a disagreement between countries in Europe about the Iraq issue. Continental Europe is not a homogenous bloc. I´m sorry to say that but it is obvious that many people in Britain think that. Continental Europe is not just France and Germany. And even France and Germany don´t agree always. That is why they were sometimes able to play the locomotive of European integration. Not because they always agreed but because if they were able to find a consensus others were able to do so as well.
In the Iraq crisis countries like Denmark, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain (however withdrawl from it now), Poland and many others (in total 18 European countries) supported President Bush. Britain is the leader of this transatlantic camp but not alone.
France is the leader of the other camp.
Germany used to stand between those positions however joined in the Iraq question France and not the US.

Bringing up history to argue a current topic is rather irrelevant. Do you dislike the germans because of the wars? Or the Scandinavians for invading in their longboats? Maybe the italians are evil because the Roman Empire marched across europe. Are all Australians bad people for being descended from convicts and basically stealing a whole country from the natives? (I apologise for the use of a stereotype there)
.

Excellent point which can be relevent to many posts on this board.All this supposed hatred is simply tribal instincts related to survival of the fittest and evolution which originate from early man and our chimp like ancesters.As you go further back in time we all become related to each other. :fluffle:

My first responses, purposely having ignored everything before:

A bit schizophrenic - UK, Britain, and then England, Scotland, Wales, Nortyhern Irelnad, and all the other bits including the commonwealth?

I have often been confused about why certain bits compete separately in football (for example) but not in other sport (olympics).

Scots - I like - one of the few places I have yet to meet someone from, who I really dislike
Welsh - universaly DOUR and cynical, but so straight I can't hate. It helps that almost every Welshman I know shares my given name...
English - mixed, but often whiny (I probably have a bias from hanging out with too many Aussies)
North Irish - What happened to the stupid, drunken Irishman? Evey Irishmen I know well is both smart and avoids alcohol...

Overall, I like the Brits.

Excellent point which can be relevent to many posts on this board.All this supposed hatred is simply tribal instincts related to survival of the fittest and evolution which originate from early man and our chimp like ancesters.As you go further back in time we all become related to each other.
We are all related up to a certain degree. Especially in Europe. If I go back my ancestory I have to go eastward.
Well, triablism always existed. Obviously we can´t get over it.
The Americans - which were after all mainly immigrants from Europe - were able to do it somehow. Why aren´t we able to do it as well?
Well: it is too much part of our national histories too hate each other.
And an interpretation of the evolution theory is playing a role indeed. There was an interpretation of it which says that is also valid for nations. Nations either expand or die. Either nations are strong and lead or they are weak and being led. Either they eat others or they are eaten.
That explains both the policies of Japan and Germany (where this theory and a pseudo-scientific interpretation of it was very popular).
Today however all nations still exist - however with different borders. Actually small nations gained independence. There are more nation states than before.
So we should leave this pseudo-darwinist theory of history behind us since it caused so much mischief. No country can lead Europe: neither France, Germany or Russia or anyone else. We have to cooperate and work together.
That was the idea of European integration and of the EEC, later EC and today EU. And I think it is a great idea and Britain should actively not only contribute but fully participate in it. But it is of course your decision as a sovereign state to take. But any decision of course has consequences. Economically the accession to the Euro would certainly mean some advantages both for Britain and for the rest of Europe.

First of all there was no disagreement in Europe about the Afghanistan issue. Secondly there was a disagreement between countries in Europe about the Iraq issue. Continental Europe is not a homogenous bloc. I´m sorry to say that but it is obvious that many people in Britain think that. Continental Europe is not just France and Germany. And even France and Germany don´t agree always. That is why they were sometimes able to play the locomotive of European integration. Not because they always agreed but because if they were able to find a consensus others were able to do so as well.


My entire post was a simplification, but I'm pleased you have picked out some of what I typed.

It's true, there was no disagreement over whether or not to go to war with the Taliban regime in Aghanistan. There was disagreement during the conflict and in the aftermath, however. There were issues of whether or not to send a multinational EU force in (which later spilled over onto questions of setting up an EU army, an idea that was strongly opposed by Germany). My post therefore referred to the crisis more generally than you have legitimately interpreted it.

Continental Europe of course is not just Germany and France. But when you're talking about the countries with major political clout (UN Security Council votes), it is these countries who are significant. This is not to deny the importance of countries such as Denmark, Holland and Spain. I am just acknowledging the hierarchy of diplomatic strength within the power structure of Europe.

In the Iraq crisis countries like Denmark, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain (however withdrawl from it now), Poland and many others (in total 18 European countries) supported President Bush. Britain is the leader of this transatlantic camp but not alone.
France is the leader of the other camp.
Germany used to stand between those positions however joined in the Iraq question France and not the US.


On Iraq, the support of countries such as Spain and Poland for Bush was, in real terms, almost inconsequential. You may recall the (inadequate) definition and reference to "old Europe", describing those countries who opposed the USA. No matter how many times Bush repeated it, it didn't matter that x number of countries were "with" him. It was the fact that France Germany and Russia were totally against his decision to invade Iraq without full endorsement from the UN.

Would love to respond in full soon. My main point is that some have stated that the Monarchy cost us money.

This year, the Monarchy cost the taxpayer £32million. The Crown Estate, where the money is paid from made £1.8 Billion.

This information was released in June of this year. The remainder of the money is received by the Chanellor of the Exchequer. The Crown Estate was signed over the the Government in the 1800s, obviously someone in Government saw a good investment.

So I thing the Monarchy is value for money. Especially since many foreign friends who visit the UK will spend lots of their time visiting Monarchy related places.

My entire post was a simplification, but I'm pleased you have picked out some of what I typed.
It's true, there was no disagreement over whether or not to go to war with the Taliban regime in Aghanistan. There was disagreement during the conflict and in the aftermath, however. There were issues of whether or not to send a multinational EU force in (which later spilled over onto questions of setting up an EU army, an idea that was strongly opposed by Germany). My post therefore referred to the crisis more generally than you have legitimately interpreted it..
Ironically that idea already existed in the 1950s. At that time it was rejected by France though. I don´t like that idea. It would be the end of the last bit of independence for the national state.

Continental Europe of course is not just Germany and France. But when you're talking about the countries with major political clout (UN Security Council votes), it is these countries who are significant. This is not to deny the importance of countries such as Denmark, Holland and Spain. I am just acknowledging the hierarchy of diplomatic strength within the power structure of Europe..
The only permanent members of the Security Council are Britain and France. That are the countries taking the lead in that dispute.
Spain and Germany were just non-permanent members (2003-2005) and didn´t even played a direct role in formulating resolution 1441. It was just an historic coincident that they played this more active role since they were non-permanent members of the Security Council at that time.
And militarly Britain and France are spending more than Germany. Not just in relative numbers (percentage of GDP: Britain 2,5%, France 2,6%, Germany 1,4%) but also in absolute numbers.


On Iraq, the support of countries such as Spain and Poland for Bush was, in real terms, almost inconsequential. You may recall the (inadequate) definition and reference to "old Europe", describing those countries who opposed the USA. No matter how many times Bush repeated it, it didn't matter that x number of countries were "with" him. It was the fact that France Germany and Russia were totally against his decision to invade Iraq without full endorsement from the UN.
It was diplomatically important for the US though, diplomatically. The US is actually even paying Poland for its deployment. But the support is in a sense consequent as Poland and other East European countries want the deployment of US troops on their territory in order to have a security assurance against the - unlikely - event of a negative development of Russia.

Would love to respond in full soon. My main point is that some have stated that the Monarchy cost us money.

This year, the Monarchy cost the taxpayer £32million. The Crown Estate, where the money is paid from made £1.8 Billion.


Who does this money go to?

Who does this money go to?
It gets handed of to the Gov to waste.

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
5) Is Britain insignificant?
6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?

Of course, all opinions are welcome, (although some will probably be antagonistic.) Again, I state... PLEASE no flaming.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))


1. I would prefer is USA got on the peace boat they keep claiming they are (which makes people wonder if it was for oil and not peace) by joining the rest of europe to get peace instead of little tacky ideas of JUST britain..

2. As far as i know the french dislike the english, but again you could say the scottish hate the english and the irish and germans as well its not real hate just anti-ignorance.

3. Quaint NO - We are developing as we speak and not that many people on the island actually lead there lives around a mythical book we can just get on with life being good people without a fantasy book hugging our lives away.

4. We all get along but theres allways some idiots who just cant go out without causing fights cause they cant handle alcohol etc .. *England football fans* they give a lot of fans a bad name my dad is english and he aint a lout or a yob but gets a bad name from the idiots who cause the fights we see every time they leave their towns. Irish bombed england my whole youth under religion but it may of been an excuse for revenge from so many deaths the english forced on the island after the romans totally wiped the floor with the english they then copied the roman tactics.

5. Its about insigniciant as America - Britain has helped many people during evil times and have been through eveil times there selves.

6. The monarchy suxks the bloody Queen is GERMAN LoL takes the whole point of there being a queen here away and the english still love it LOL.
I would imagine it was the same when the romans came over they loved it LOL and didnt fight them bak for their freedom.

7. No way they have done everything to help rid the world of the evil we see everyday on our T.V sets .

8. The reason UK sides with America while trying to get them to join in the european council is for peace and US helped us in our darkest hour and we wont see it happen to anyone for any reason *Germany invading us*


Hope these make sense ;)

I have heard many differing opinions and stereo-types about Britain. I don't class the stereo-types as important, but am intrigued to know where they came from and if they are justified.

A few things to discuss here... and please, no flaming.
No worries. I've not read other comments, just felt like sticking my oar in regardless. Please note, some comments are the reality as I see it, not necessarily as I would like to see it. Here we go...

1) I would prefer Britain to join the U.S, rather than Europe. However, I am not economically minded, so this could be a bad idea. Anyone else have an opinion?
Bloody hell. Join the US? As in 51st State? I regard the idea of even signing NAFTA with horror, let alone exchanging our not-quite-three party system to be subsumed within a two party nightmare. The EU... not sure. I'm no patriot, my objections to the EU are mainly on the grounds of corruption, economic policy, treatment of developing countries, etc ad nauseum.

2) Do the french REALLY hate the english?
Not universally. Sometimes they take the opposite view. Ahem...*dreamy look*

3) Is Britain really 'quaint'.
Rural areas, yes. No more so than most other nations, I imagine.

4) Internal British relationships.... Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. (Yes Wales is a seperate nation in it's own right.) - How do the British get on with each other. Do the english need to worry about being invaded by the scottish? Should they have independence?
Great Britain is a geographical entity, not a nation. The nation is the United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland. Wales is specifically a principality, not a nation. Scotland and Northern Ireland... I'm not sure of the exact definitions, they are effectively autonomous regions. Likewise England; though it actually has less individual autonomy, this is offset by the amount of influence it has over the running of the Kingdom as a whole.

5) Is Britain insignificant?
To those who live there, no. To others, it depends. No need for further analysis, I feel.

6) Is the monarchy insignificant?
No, else it would have withered away by now.

7) Does the british government interfere too much in other countries affairs? Where should they draw the line?
We'd possibly like to do more, rightly or wrongly. I happen to feel that our influence is mixed. We're an invaluable link between the US and Europe at the moment.

8) Does Britain side too much with America, or not enough? Are the British trying to 'suck up' to America because the U.S scares them or because there is a mutual respect?
I think there's genuine mutual respect between certain elements of the political establishments and certain sections of the populations. I feel that Blair is far too close to Bush for comfort. So to speak.

((edited a mistake concerning the nations comprising Great Britain. Also edited the claim that Wales was a country and replaced it with nation... even though wales is advertising with the slogan 'The Big Country'))
Hmm, dubious...

6. The monarchy suxks the bloody Queen is GERMAN LoL takes the whole point of there being a queen here away and the english still love it LOL.
I would imagine it was the same when the romans came over they loved it LOL and didnt fight them bak for their freedom.

7. No way they have done everything to help rid the world of the evil we see everyday on our T.V sets .

8. The reason UK sides with America while trying to get them to join in the european council is for peace and US helped us in our darkest hour and we wont see it happen to anyone for any reason *Germany invading us*


Hope these make sense ;)
6. Christ! So unless you're a ginger minge then your not English either eh? Lol all you want she's more English than you'll ever be.

8. No they did not help us in our darkest hour. They helped us a few minutes after we had already gone through the darkest hour.

6. Christ! So unless you're a ginger minge then your not English either eh? Lol all you want she's more English than you'll ever be.

8. No they did not help us in our darkest hour. They helped us a few minutes after we had already gone through the darkest hour.


LOL M8 Im half-english and not german from this island so im more english than the queen and my roots dig deep into britain not germany.

8. True m8, CHurchill had to proove to the americans that we were worth saving

LOL M8 Im half-english and not german from this island so im more english than the queen and my roots dig deep into britain not germany.

8. True m8, CHurchill had to proove to the americans that we were worth saving
Well, she speaks/writes better English ;)

Well, she speaks/writes better English ;)


Its funny that this is peoples chance to hit a point - using someones spelling mistakes lOl

It really does show what your capable of

Its funny that this is peoples chance to hit a point - using someones spelling mistakes lOl

It really does show what your capable of
Relax, it is a joke.

Look through my history, I'm no fan of the Monarchy either.

Relax, it is a joke.

Look through my history, I'm no fan of the Monarchy either.

keep the jokes for the joke fourm plz..

I actually only found out that the queen was german about a year ago..

I couldnt beleive it and to be honest dont really care but it undermimes the whole queen of britain bit..

keep the jokes for the joke fourm plz..

I actually only found out that the queen was german about a year ago..

I couldnt beleive it and to be honest dont really care but it undermimes the whole queen of britain bit..
1. NS has no joke forum.

2. The Queen isn't German. Yes, she is descended from German[s], but still. You may as well call everyone African.

3. Unfortunately it doesn't undermine anything. We have had plenty of foreign Monarchs.

1. NS has no joke forum.

2. The Queen isn't German. Yes, she is descended from German[s], but still. You may as well call everyone African.

3. Unfortunately it doesn't undermine anything. We have had plenty of foreign Monarchs.


Ive seen a few joke threads..

It undermimes it from beginning to end old chap..

She still shouts for germany when watching football i would imagine there are german scrolls in the palace detailing there 'stay' on britain and how to keep a hold with monarchy..

The monarchs of britain could be classed as genocidal causing so many deaths between such a small island after the romans invaded and a roman cassanova stuck his dic* in the king *cough* queen the english people followed them to death and more fighting people 2 hours away.. The body count must me massive and yet the ignorance will make it seem ok

Ive seen a few joke threads..

Yes, well. Unless you are willing to post that again in one of those threads then fine.

It undermimes it from beginning to end old chap..
How?

Remember, our first King (using normal timelines), was Norman.

She still shouts for germany when watching football i would imagine there are german scrolls in the palace detailing there 'stay' on britain and how to keep a hold with monarchy..

Proof that she even watches football.

Would you say I am not British? I have lived my whole life in Britain, but my parents are immigrants btw.

Usually holidays don't last several generations

Yes, well. Unless you are willing to post that again in one of those threads then fine.


How?

Remember, our first King (using normal timelines), was Norman.



Proof that she even watches football.

Would you say I am not British? I have lived my whole life in Britain, but my parents are immigrants btw.

Usually holidays don't last several generations


The genocide bit does undermime it a lot..

The thing is a monarchy with such stature you would expect to be from their own lands.

The genocide bit does undermime it a lot..

The thing is a monarchy with such stature you would expect to be from their own lands.
The current lot are. Or do you believe that a family needs to have lived in a country for x generations before they can be considered to be from that country?

And when did the current Queen authorise genocide. You do realise that the royal family doesn't have any connection to the Normans right, or a few of the previous royal houses?

The current lot are. Or do you believe that a family needs to have lived in a country for x generations before they can be considered to be from that country?

And when did the current Queen authorise genocide. You do realise that the royal family doesn't have any connection to the Normans right, or a few of the previous royal houses?


Not a family but a monarchy at least especially when they then push the country into geneocide. Family's dont claim the lands to push the people who live there into geneocide. And surely a real monarchy should of been willing to save the people it claimed to ruled.