"Where there’s a will there’s a way," underscored Chancellor Angela Merkel. Europe has often proved this to be the case. When a member state expresses the wish for change, the European Union must respond.

Constructive talks

She would be playing a constructive part in these talks to find a solution, she said. She believes that "with good will" a solution can be found. "Europe has a lot to do, and both Germany and the UK intend to do their bit," said Angela Merkel.

Firstly, said the Chancellor, the substance of the matter will be discussed. Only then will it be appropriate to look at the form in which changes can be realised. The question of form is not one that should be put at the outset of a negotiation process.

David Cameron declared that he believes Europe to be flexible enough for change to be possible.

In the wake of his electoral victory on 7 May 2015, British Prime Minister David Cameron is currently visiting all 27 EU member states. Having visited the Netherlands, France and Poland, his whistle-stop tour took him to Germany.

Reforms also in Germany’s interests

Angela Merkel stressed that certain reforms could be in Germany’s interests too. The UK and Germany have similar views, for instance, on scaling back bureaucracy and better regulation. "These are points on which we can quickly agree on common positions."

There are other areas where negotiations will be more protracted. Concerns have also been voiced in Germany about the potential exploitation of social and welfare provisions, including differences in minimum wage levels and welfare benefits in member states. There are concerns that these differences could be exploited as a result of the freedom of movement within the EU. Angela Merkel pointed out, "It could also be in Germany’s interests to make certain modifications here."

One key focus of David Cameron’s second term of office will be renegotiating the UK’s relationship with the EU and initiating reforms of the EU. No later than 2017, the British electorate is to vote in a referendum on whether or not the UK should remain in the EU.