" As David Cameron so brutally found out in 2015-16, there is limited appetite in Brussels to be helpful or flexible towards Britain. "
- Priti Patel

In the given statement, Priti Patel reflects on a situation where former British Prime Minister David Cameron encountered significant challenges when dealing with European Union officials during 2015 and 2016. The core message conveyed is that the EU leadership was not particularly willing to accommodate or show flexibility towards Britain's needs and requests.

Beyond its surface meaning, this quote touches on broader themes of political negotiation and diplomacy. It highlights the complexities and sometimes rigid nature of international organizations like the European Union when member states seek special treatment or concessions. The statement underscores the importance of understanding these dynamics before embarking on significant policy changes or negotiations with such bodies. This insight is crucial for policymakers and citizens alike, as it reveals the underlying tensions between national interests and the collective framework established by supranational institutions.

Priti Patel, the author of this quote, is a British politician who has been active in both local and national politics. She served as Secretary of State for International Development and later took on roles within the Home Office, demonstrating her involvement in various aspects of governmental policy-making. Her perspective is informed by firsthand experience navigating Britain's relationship with the EU during critical periods, making her observations particularly insightful.