lecture4英国人的性格英国节日英国与.ppt

Lecture 4 (Part One) The English Character English Characteristics (1) To other Europeans, the best known quality of the British, and in particular of the English, is reserve. A reserved person is one who does not talk very much to strangers, does not show much emotion, and seldom gets excited. It is difficult to get to know a reserved person; he never tells you anything about himself, where he lives, how many children he has friendship, loyalty & the desire for freedom & peace.” (Queen Elizabeth II, Radio Broadcast, Christmas 1953) Relations with Europe: the European Community It was founded in 1958, when 6 countries signed the Treaty of Rome, their primary concern being to restore their economies which had suffered the aftermath of the 2 world wars in Europe. Further integration, particularly regarding economic aspects, were achieved with the ratification of the Single European Act in 1986. The Aims of the EC To reduce & remove restrictions between the member countries: -by the removal of internal trade barriers -by enabling a free flow of capital & perhaps the eventual introduction of a common currency -by allowing citizens of all the member states to seek jobs in any of the member countries without having to acquire a work permit To develop common policies on transport, agriculture & external trade. Members of European Community The original 6 members were West Germany, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Italy, Netherlands. 1994, in addition to these 6, the other 9 members are Britain, Irish Republic, Denmark, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Sweden, Austria & Finland. Britain & the United Nations Britain is fully committed to the principles of the UN & its Charter & believes that all member states should ensure that the functions of the organization maintain peace, assist developing nations & protect human rights & freedoms. The Security Council of the UN is constituted with 15 members, 5 countries,