Open Europe commemorates Derek Scott

The Open Europe team would like to pay tribute to our Vice-Chairman Derek Scott, who sadly passed away last night after having suffered from cancer for several months. A former advisor to Tony Blair, Derek was a courageous economist and opinion former, whose influence has cut across governments and political parties. Endowed with both a sharp mind and a huge amount of economic common sense, Derek correctly predicted what has now come to pass in Europe – not only more accurately than almost anyone else, but also much earlier.

Years ago, Derek wrote, “The only convergence in euroland is slow growth and deteriorating public finances.” How right he has been proven. Putting principle before political opportunity, he was always ready to speak his mind – whether warning against the flaws of the euro before it became fashionable, or campaigning against the EU’s Lisbon Treaty up and down the country.

Derek was a thoroughly decent person who generously shared his time and insight. He was an inspiration to the Open Europe team and we owe him greatly. Our thoughts are with his wife Gisela and all his friends and family.