France says it can work with Britain on EU

PARIS, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- French minister Pierre Lellouche said he isn't concerned about Britain's European policy, adding he could work with Conservative leader David Cameron.

Lellouche, France's minister for Europe, was critical of the British opposition party's pledge to reclaim some powers from the European Union, based in Brussels, The BBC reported Friday.

But Lellouche told the British broadcaster he considered William Hague, Britain's shadow foreign secretary, a "friend" and would work with him.

Since the Lisbon Treaty was ratified, Cameron vowed to give the British people a vote on future treaties that would transfer powers to Brussels. He also said he would try to renegotiate existing laws to take back national consideration over some social, employment and criminal justice powers, a move that would require approval of all 27 European Union members, the BBC said.

Lellouche said he was "saddened" by the "Euro-hostility" tone in the Conservative discussions.

He said he was "convinced" Britain "eventually" would resume a "full role" in Europe under the Conservatives "despite this rhetoric."