The In/Out Question

by Hugo Dixon

In The IN/OUT Question, top financial journalist and entrepreneur Hugo Dixon challenges the received wisdom about the EU and explains why:

• Immigration is good for Britain
• Europe is not heading towards a super-state
• We benefit hugely from the single market
• All the alternatives to EU membership are worse
• Britain has a golden opportunity to make the EU more competitive
• Now is the time to push for change. We shouldn’t wait until after the General Election.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction

150 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 12, 2014

Reviews

[Mikaela · Rating 3 out of 5]

Written before the referendum, the book is almost eerily predictive of the consequences it would have for British politics. The book did not feel at all out of date and added some really interesting perspectives, especially since the author is a very reluctant EU supporter. A quick and interesting read.

[Alejandro Shirvani · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short summary of arguments for the UK remaining in the EU: it busts some Eurosceptic myths and outlines the basic reasons why the UK would be better remaining in the EU. Also includes a menu of things to try and change where the UK could achieve real gains from EU membership if us and the rest of the EU stop dragging our feet.

I don't agree with some of the arguments and some of the rather unsubstantiated statements about 'what is wrong' with the current relationship but it's certainly a worthwhile read.

One of the best parts of the book is an analysis of the various versions of the UK being "out". It considers four possible options - a completely out option where we have no trade deal and face an EU tariff for exports, a Norway style arrangement with reciprocal free trade agreements, reduced membership subscription and free movement of people, a Swiss style arrangement with reduced obligations compared to the Norway option (eg not having to apply social rules) and also no banking passport to provide services to the EU, and a Turkey style arrangement with some free trade access on goods but not services. The book highlights the difficulties Norway and Switzerland have and shows why they are not the easy way out that some Eurosceptics like to suggest.

[Aurélien Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

Personally leaning towards the 'out' side, I remained curious to see how the 'in' could even be defended. I therefore picked up this short little book, and honestly wasn't disappointed. Blunt and straight to the point, with every single argument backed up by neat evidence, here's indeed a concise and praiseworthy stance for Britain to stay in.

Hugo Dixon, of course, acknowledges the many useless and wasteful aspects of the EU (the CAP, its regional policies, its overregulated bureaucracy, 'the travelling circus' that is the European Parliament etc.) but, he just sees it all as annoying features of an imperfect system that could be changed. More serious to him is in fact the cost of leaving, in terms of foreign policy, economics, business and finances and, also, the Constitutional crisis that a Brexit might cause. It wasn't enough to sway my opinion (political sovereignty seals the deal to me) but, at least his case is compelling enough to deserve attention.

Clearly put forward, in a word here's a book full of relevant points that have to be taken into account by any serious voter -whatever your side on the issue.

[Tariq Mahmood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book on the critical question of Britain's membership of the EU. It gave a lowdown of all the highs and lows of staying or leaving the EU. Basically I was trying to understand the popularity of UKIP in the British elections, which takes a super tough stance against EU. For a country which made its fortune from extensive trade, and in the process colonised almost 1/3 of the world, the thought that they can do it alone is mind boggling. Successful trade requires protectionism, and EU will give economies of scale which will help Britain stay in the game. For if you are not on the table you are probably on the menu. As a member Britain will be able to influence the EU policy and capitalise on its native language otherwise this proud nation will loose its last remaining Service Industry as well.

[Jack Munn · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lightweight, journalistic and readable rebuttal of the most common arguments against Britain's continued membership in the European Union.

Dixon's arguments are somewhat undermined by focusing solely on economic factors, largely ignoring differences in culture or politics. His suggestions of wholesale reform, a refutation of 'ever closer union' and a need for a powerful Commission , are all at odds with recent trends.

Regardless, a good introduction for some of the topics being debated.

[Duncan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The case for keeping Britain in the EU in brief. Simple and compelling. Dixon shows how weak the Eurosceptics arguments really are.

[David Hurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am persuaded, we should stay in. Simple arguments with only the slightest hint of selective fact presentation.

[Tia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read a few political books lately, this was by far the best. Well considered and evidenced arguments in a digestible read.

[James Sowden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Defiantly getting in vote

Before reading this I was in the stay in camp but didn't quite realise quite his much we need the EU . some really great points and facts and figures