Five years on and Brexit is a complete mess

Across the country and in all business sectors the damage that Brexit has done to the UK is undeniable. Despite this, both Labour and the Conservatives won’t even consider the obvious steps that can get us closer to the EU, our main trading partner.  It goes without saying that Reform are still following their disgraceful leader and chasing unicorns towards a Brexit wonderland.

Only the Liberal Democrats are sensible enough to see that the way to repair the damage is to get back closer to the EU.  We must progress on a trajectory that will lead to us going back into the single market and scrapping the red tape that is strangling exporters, and has caused many small businesses to give up completely.

The current fiscal situation that led the Chancellor to raise taxes in such a callous manner would have been unnecessary if we had not suffered the financial hit of Brexit. Although it is impossible to put a precise cost on Brexit, it is estimated that the average Briton is £2,000 pa worse off as a consequence.

Commenting on the fifth anniversary of the UK leaving the EU, Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said:

“The UK needs to lead in Europe and the world. It’s clear we cannot rely on Donald Trump – a man who has threatened to invade a NATO ally – to secure our continent. Strengthening ties of diplomacy and security with the EU is urgent. 

“We must repair the trading relationship with our neighbours that was so badly ruined under the Conservatives. Their deal has been an utter disaster for our country - for farmers, fishers and small businesses - caught up in red tape. 

“So far the Labour Government has failed to show the urgency and ambition needed to fix our relationship with Europe. Ministers must be in a parallel universe if they think we can grow the economy without boosting trade with our nearest neighbours.

“A new UK-EU customs union deal will unlock growth, demonstrate British leadership and give us the best possible hand to play against President Trump.”