Brexit could damage achievements UK takes for granted

Berlin

NO country in Europe has a greater interest than Germany in keeping Britain in the European Union. Industrialists, bankers, politicians, commentators: whatever their differences are, they all see "Brexit" as a mistake of historic proportions.

In a time out of joint, as Shakespeare's Prince of Denmark observed, Europe risks becoming unhinged. Stand-offish as never before in the last half century, Britain can make or break the EU. The beautiful maiden from Greek mythology is not in good shape. Her reputation leaves a lot to be desired. At the least, high-class cosmetic surgery is required. Long before things get better, they can get worse.