UK staying in an EU stuck in limbo is preferable to leaving

THE issues behind Britain's June 23 referendum on membership of the European Union (EU) can be viewed on three different levels. The poll will calibrate child benefit for continental workers in UK restaurants, factories and building sites. It will determine whether Europe remains strong, stable and secure. And it will decide whether Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, becomes the next British prime minister.

Seen from this angle, voting in favour of the UK staying in suddenly becomes a lot easier. I found Mr Johnson's decision announced on Sunday to join the "out" campaign not surprising but shocking.

Mr Johnson, a man for whom the words "maverick" and "opportunist" could have been coined, has long hurled invective at the EU (some elements justified, others clownish mud-slinging). Yet, I thought that, given the rare opportunity of taking a serious decision on an important matter, Mr Johnson might give priority to his Conservative Party and his country, rather than his political career.