This blog is not degenerating into an analysis of Tony Blair's 'love-ins' with his fellow European leaders but the press conferences provide insights about his attitude towards Europe and the 'war on terror'. It is clear that, in order to combat Islamic terrorism, Blair has prioritised the development of a co-ordinated response across the European Union. In this press conference with the Spanish Prime Minister, as in his talks with Dominique de Villepin, the major focus was on extending the timeframe for data retention and strengthening the laws on internal security. Blair's authoritarian populism is utilised to strengthen the security policies of the European Union. When questioned about the European arrest warrant, the Prime Minister was quick to downgrade the importance of the common law, in the name of European solidarity:
I think in respect of the situation of co-operating on arrest warrants, this is one of the reasons why we need a simple European system of doing this, and I am very anxious to make sure that we cooperate fully with our European partners so that where there are people who are wanted for terrorist activities in other countries, then they get the fullest possible cooperation from us and from our judicial system. Now we obviously operate in a different common law system, but the basic principle of solidarity between European countries in fighting this terrorism is essential.
Given the range of crimes covered by the European Arrest warrant, it is worrying that terrorism may prove the cause of easing extradition for other offences.
The press conference allowed Blair to provide rhetorical support for Spain's latest diplomatic action plan, "An Alliance of Civilisations". This anti-Huntingdon and, by extension, implied critique of neo-conservatism (read stereotyping of US foreign policy), fits neatly with Blair's attachment to presentation. The talking shop, co-sponsored by Spain and Turkey, appears to be a chance for all of the elites in Europe and the Middle East to sign, under the aegis of the United Nations, a statement of solidarity combating terror. Here is their initial action:
Annan is bringing together a high-level group of eminent persons to guide the initiative. The group is expected to present a report with recommendations and a practical plan of action in late 2006.
Blair's painless support was cost-free; the test comes in 2006 when the recommendations can be assessed with regard to the position of Israel and Iran.