UK must make clear it will remain a reliable partner

BRITAIN has done a wonderful job in negotiating the best terms to stay in the European Union with "special status". But perhaps it has been too skilful. Continental Europeans (and the rest of the world) may perceive the Brits as too clever by half.

The debate over British membership comes at a bad time. The "House of European Union" is on fire. The last thing that the other residents need is a footloose member of the community heading for the exit.

In my early years as a student, and later as an executive working for western companies, I was taught that when there is a fire, true leadership dictates that you run towards it and try to put it out. You do not run away from it.