European socialists are trying to force Hungary out of the European Union, according to government sources.
János Lázár, the minister heading the prime minister’s office, said the socialists "have taken it upon themselves” to try to force Hungary to the periphery of the European Union.
He added that the European Socialists would like to see states which think in terms of the representation of national interests and sovereignty “being chastened, brought to their knees” or forced out.
The minister said that one of the consequences of Brexit is that European conservatives have become paralyzed, while the socialists have ready answers regarding what should happen to the EU after Britain’s departure, and “they would like socialism”.
The big debate of the period to come will be about whether the Member States will be able to better contribute to the future of the European Union by surrendering further powers, such as taxation and supply systems, or by exercising them more effectively, he said.
The Hungarian position has been consistent since 2010 that there is no need or scope for surrendering further powers because it helps the country’s competitiveness if these issues remain within Member State competence, Lázár said.