To What Extent is it fair to describe Britain as an Awkward

" This also underlines the fact that Britain wanted to continue 'as before' and thought it could, at the time Britain was producing about one half of the coal and steel in Europe.
             Right from the conception of the European union Britain has stood aloof from the union being very cautious and wary. From as far back as the creation of the European Steel and Coal Community in 1952 Britain has shown its unwillingness and reservations about joining Europe. The ECSC was set up under the Treaty of Paris in 1951 with 6 countries signing. These countries were France, Italy, Luxemburg, Holland and Belgium. Britain was expected to join the ECSC but this was not the case. Britain at the time had a far superior economy in strength than the rest of its European counterparts and felt the union would only inhibit them Economically.
             In 1955 a congress was held on the creation of a general customs union, to which Britain did not deem important enough to send more than a civil servant. However even he was recalled from the conference. This demonstrated the arrogance of Britain at the time that felt that these Treaties and agreements did not warrant their involvement. Further adding to their self-exclusion was Britain's failure to get involved and sign the Treaty of Rome in 1957, which established the EEC (European Economic Community). Britain voiced its opposition to the union and specifically the loss of sovereignty that would be involved and showed no sign of enthusiasm for this union as to which they were invited. This shows that from the conception of the European idea Britain saw themselves as somewhat superior and stood aloof. In these respects Britain can very correctly be described as the "awkward partner".
             In response to the creation of the EEC, Britain performed an act of even further arrogance and self-exclusion with there creation of the European Free Trade Association set up to rival the EEC.