The debate over Brexit continues to stir varying opinions among UK political leaders, as the nation marks nearly four years since its official departure from the European Union on January 31, 2020. Nigel Farage, a prominent Brexit advocate, maintains his belief that leaving the EU was the right decision. Contrarily, Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, aims to "reset" relations with the EU and secure a more advantageous deal for the UK. Meanwhile, the Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch hailed Brexit as "the greatest vote of confidence in our country," underscoring its perceived benefits, such as freedom from EU procurement rules.
Amidst these discussions, the UK government remains firm in its stance not to rejoin the EU or its customs union. A No 10 spokesman emphasized that Brexit has allowed the UK to escape EU regulations, enhancing its status as a competitive financial hub. The Liberal Democrats, however, criticized the Brexit deal as "an utter disaster," advocating for full EU membership as the optimal choice for the UK.
Nigel Farage, who played a pivotal role in the Brexit campaign, stated:
"I still 100% believe it was the right thing to do." – Nigel Farage
Yet, he expressed dissatisfaction with its implementation:
"I'm disappointed in the way it's been delivered." – Nigel Farage
Sir Keir Starmer's approach signals a desire for a more cooperative relationship with Europe. He aims to improve Brexit's functionality for British citizens and fortify ties with the EU. A No 10 spokesman reinforced this sentiment:
"We know we can do better to make Brexit work for the British people, that it's in the UK's national interest to have a more co-operative relationship with the EU." – A Number 10 spokesman
The spokesman also acknowledged the EU's significance as a trading partner and neighbor:
"They're our largest trading partner and our closest neighbour, and will be vital in helping us to tackle ongoing threats to our security, and that's why we're working together with the EU to strengthen our partnership." – A Number 10 spokesman
Despite these cooperative overtures, the government remains steadfast against rejoining the customs union, focusing instead on leveraging regulatory freedom to boost London's competitiveness:
"That is a big benefit for us, as well as our freedom to adapt our financial services regulations to make them more suited to the UK market environment, and that's enhanced London's competitiveness as a financial hub," – A Number 10 spokesman
The Liberal Democrats, led by Sir Ed Davey, argue for unlocking growth and demonstrating British leadership on the global stage. Davey believes that rejoining the EU could bolster the UK's position against international figures like President Trump. Green MP Ellie Chowns supports rejoining the customs union and advocates for a youth mobility scheme with the EU:
"full membership of the EU remains the best option for the UK" – Ellie Chowns