in, p. 2).
The fact that the EC, through the European Economic Community (EEC) can and often does act as a single entity in international economic relations is often misconstrued as proof that the EC can act in a similar way with respect to external political issues (Brewin, 1987, p. 4). With respect to external political issues, the EC has very little more power to act independently of its member states than does the United Nations to act independently of the five member states which may exercise a veto in that organization (Brewin, p.6).
The Single Act of Luxembourg, which, by 1987, had been ratified by all EC member countries, is the vehicle which is designed to bring about the complete economic integration of the community (Paxton, 1989, p. 46). Common Community responses to international political crises, defense, and other matters are also envisioned by the Single Act. This part of the act causes Britain to worry about its independent freedom of action, and Ireland to worry about its constitutional neutrality.
...