Your questions on the European Union answered

Commissioner, if the European Union isn't about creating a single, so-called federal state, what does "ever closer union" in the Maastricht-treaty mean?

I'm very pleased you asked me that. You see, the EU is all about subsidiarity.

And what's that?

It's a system under which power, instead of being held centrally, is exercised at the lowest possible level.

But why, then, has the union taken over some of the responsibilities of the member-governments?

I'm very pleased you asked me that.

Thank you. Now, about this "ever closer union". What will it actually entail?

It will entail the continual pooling of decisions on matters such as the economy, law and order, and defence.

But doesn't that go against the principle of subsidiarity?

Goodness me, no.

Oh, I see. Thank you very much.

You're welcome.