A doomed marriage

SIR — The now fractured relationship between the UK and EU was doomed when it decided to retain the pound after joining the union in 1996.

All other members opted for the euro, a currency that has stayed on course for much of its two decades in existence.

Britain’s laid-back mannerisms and obsession with colonial glories, compared to the skilful European approach to business, were part of the problem of that marriage. Recent events — mass immigration into Europe after the Syrian uprising and opposition by die-hard anti-immigration parties — also put paid to its continued links with the EU.

Bound by its Commonwealth credo to take in member citizens, the number in the UK now stands at a staggering 1O-million. The UK is on its own after years of being “boss”. It never had an affinity for playing second fiddle to another group or union. It remains an island — aloof! AR Modak Robertsham