The UElement.- Good morning, we are delighted that you are here with us today to discuss the issue of the entry of Spain into the European Union and its consequences.

Firstly, how old were you when Spain joined the European Union?

Eduardo López-Collazo.- That was 30 years ago, so I was 16 years old.

TUE.- Do you think this integration was a good idea?

ELC.- It is the best thing that could have happened to Spain.

TUE.- What are the benefits that has provided this change?

ELC.- Spain and the Spaniards entered a modern and integration era. Besides the obvious, that were all the resources which were received from Europe, like cohesion funds, the country benefited from the dialogue, from a new way to interact, from cultural exchange at many levels. The borders’ elimination and then the single currency facilitated many things.

TUE.- And the negatives?

ELC.- I can not think of anything now.

TUE.- From your point of view, should Spain still remain part of this political community?

ELC.- It was definitely modernized, started a way to feel part of a large-scale project.

TUE.- In short, what are the changes you have seen in the Spanish society produced by this entry into the European Union?

ELC.- Definitely yes.

TUE.- Finally, if I say ‘European Union’, what is the first word that comes to your head?

ELC.- Exchange.

TUE.- Thank you very much Eduardo for your time to answering our questions.