Brexit Collusion Between France and UK? What Really Happened?

Reader Caradoc-Again is wondering about collusion between Boris Johnson and Emmanuel macron. More specifically, and in response to EU Trade Commissioner Pokes Boris Johnson in the Eye, Caradoc-Again asks:

Is there any mileage in the idea that: a) Macron and BJ have back door deal to exit fast . b) France benefits through more EU seats & weakened German block. c) France and Southern Europe will push for fiscal consolidation. d) Christine LaGarde (placed by Macron) to work on Eurobond. e) France becomes de facto leader of EU. f) Outcome is weaker Euro and Target 2 imbalances addressed. g) Germans have to go along

The short answer to the above is yes, and I said so way back in October.

October 25: France Says Brexit "Pressure Must Be Maintained"

Boris Johnson has found an EU ally at last. France appears to be holding firm. The EU was supposed to have announced today its decision on a Brexit extension. However, that decision has been delayed, possibly until Tuesday, as France has decided there must be a way forward.

For weeks I have suggested this outcome, but mainstream media rejected it, as did many of my own readers. However, the theory can no longer be rejected.

“There is one country standing in the way – France,” a diplomat said.

Why Might France Buck the EU?

I have made the case many times. Let's recap.

1. France is sick of this mess more than any other nation.
2. France does not want the UK wrecking its policy in the European Parliament (EP). Perhaps Johnson even said that to Macron.
3. France and Germany are at odds over many issues in the EP.
4. France picks up EP seats once the UK leaves. Germany does not.

That is what I said at the time. The Maven does not support numbered lists inside block quotes or I would have done so.

Conclusion

If France delays until the 29th, and the offer is not precisely an extension until January 31, Johnson might be able to force No Deal, and blame it on Labour.

This puts elections in play.

Meanwhile, Thank You France!

In a comment to the article, I added this tidbit.

"The last thing Macron wants is the UK remaining and blocking his eurofederalist agenda. France would survive a no-deal far better than Germany, and Germany is effectively leaderless at present - an ideal time for Macron to galvanize the EU with his vision of a true political, economic and military union, a United States of Europe."

Bingo! Not a matter of trusting Macron. It is a matter of trusting Macron's agenda!