Euro Area

[Furunculus]

I'm not familiar with the exact content of what Merkel is proposing, but the point is that euro-sceptic maxim "monetary union must be also a fiscal union" is bollox, pure and simple, and it doesn't exist anywhere in the world.

It's a wonder it managed to stick for so long with eurosceptics (which proves just how uninformed most eurosceptics are, they just need a cool mantra to parrot). Thank god they've changed it to "Ok, it works, but I don't want to pay a single dime to anyone outside my country". Helps their case much more.

Mentary Union does not work without Fiscal Union (inc transfers), because divergent economies have no mechanism to correct for that diversion. so no, it is far from bollox, you want the Euro to work then you'd better be willing to pony up 5% of GDP in perpetuity.
Alternatively, you might get away without the transfers is you have very harmonious neigbouring economies, germany and the netherlands for example. In that case, the Eurozone needs to weed out the weak countries that cannot thrive without transfers, viz the upcoming Grexit. But Greece is only the start!

Are Scots your family? You weren't against sending them money and they may end up proclaiming independence. Are you in favour of kicking them out because the fact that they are merely considering a referendum shows they aren't really committed to look after you and yours in return?

yes, the scots are my family, i consider myself british not english.

if scots vote for indepenence then they will have said they are not my family, in which case the sentiment dies, but i am not going to prempt their decision.