Yesterday's shining heroes of Brexit have become the sorrowful heroes of today.

Now people are criticizing Europe, the European Commission, Juncker and the whole lot because the distribution of refugees didn't succeed immediately. But you also have to recognize that close to 20,000 refugees have already been redistributed. There are only a few member states that do not want to take part.

I believe neither the French nor the Dutch really rejected the constitutional treaty.

I am, however, deeply saddened by this [Brexit] vote by the British electorate. But I respect their decision. What is crucial now is that we focus very precisely on what Europe can do for people: stimulate investment, create jobs and together ensure the safety and security of our citizens.

Article 50 governs the exit from the European Union and here there can also be no renegotiation.

My father was a steel worker and Martin's [Schulz] grandfather was a miner in Saarland. In these occupations, there is a particular awareness of solidarity. That creates links that aren't present in other relationships.

I notice with a certain sense of regret that far too many Europeans are returning to a regional and national mindset.