Before the EU Referendum if asked what I would thought/would vote I would happily express the view that I would like to vote Leave. Living in Spain at the time I was clear that the concept of the EU had outgrown its initial objectives, had become a wasteful and unnecessary Government body, and that we should be able to survive without being a member.
On the other hand, I would also tell you that I would vote Remain as I was far from convinced that the UK had enough products and services to survive ‘alone’ and that we lacked the leadership and talent within Government(s) to navigate us through unchartered waters.
During the ensuing negotiations my view remained that although the EU was a far too dominant club, it was a club better to belong to and work within for change, than to be on the outside of.
I was also firmly of the view that we more we learned about the potential shape and impact of Brexit, the more we should be given the opportunity to confirm that we did indeed want to leave.
But before I am jumped all over let me be clear that I am not after a reversal of the Brexit decision!
A couple of days ago on Twitter (MarshallCAJ3107) I posted the following idea. The majority it should be said agreed, the rest basically threw a variety of insults my way suggesting that I was just trying to capitalise on the current situation with COVID-19 to get a Brexit reversal (see above).
My suggestion was that COVID-19 has, in my opinion, highlighted a number of issues: successive Governments have left the UK ill prepared in terms of an educated population, an inadequate infrastructure (broadband, roads, NHS etc), a broken society, and have shown at best mediocre leadership – the talk is good, but delivering on the promises has been inadequate. Now add in the financial and economic uncertainty we will all face post COVID-19 and I have a very simple question: will the UK foundation in the UK be strong enough to jump straight into a new post Brexit world? Will we have the financial strength, the resources, the stomach for the fight ……
Personally I would extend the transition period for two years! I would make the decision now so there was no distractions – let us all focus on COVID-19 (survival and rebuilding) and then let’s negotiate Brexit from a position of strength.
Yes, I would also like to see some confirmatory involvement from the public as for so many their lives will be so much different post COVID-19: higher taxes, less savings, lower investment values could effect us all.
Grown up Government. Wouldn’t that be a good thing to have come out of COVID-19!!??
Keep Safe. Be Nice