The Post-Brexit Reality in the UK: Housekeeping vs. Ideology

The post-Brexit situation in the UK has starkly illustrated the divide between pragmatic housekeeping and ideological pursuits. In a world where electing representatives eventually means entrusting them with the mundane tasks necessary for a stable society, the Brexit saga has become a case study in failed pragmatism.

From Election to Oversight

The British system of governance follows a straightforward pattern: elect officials to handle the quotidian tasks of housekeeping, with an eventual review of their performance to determine re-election or replacement. This cycle is underscored by the understanding that while politicians are often seen as necessary evils, they are the only viable candidates for the job. However, as the post-Brexit situation in the UK has shown, this re-election process may not always lead to improvement or satisfaction.

The initial sentiment was one of pragmatic neutrality: "Politicians are a necessary evil nobody likes them they are all equally shifty but they are the only applicants for the job so what ya gunna do?" This attitude suggests that the electorate, in opting for Brexit, may have been more interested in changing the approach to housekeeping rather than drastically altering the way it was being carried out. However, the results have been far from reassuring.

Post-Brexit Chaos

The rhetoric surrounding the post-Brexit settlement was that it would result in significant benefits. However, the reality has been starkly different. With no better trade deals and the loss of freedom to travel and live in the EU, the expectations of a future without the EU have not been met. Further, there has been no notable improvement in the National Health Service (NHS), which remains a bone of contention among the British public.

The government's reluctance to change laws or trading standards without tangible benefits has highlighted the lack of forward planning and consideration. The focus seems to be on maintaining the status quo rather than making the necessary adjustments to adapt to the new reality. The result has been a sense of chaos and disillusionment, with many businesses struggling to adapt to the new landscape.

Who Gained from Brexit?

The benefits of Brexit have largely accrued to the 'stealthy wealthy,' who have continued to benefit from the UK's position as a tax haven and money laundering haven. Meanwhile, Putin and oligarchs who funded the Leave campaign have also emerged as beneficiaries, exploiting the weakened political alliance to their advantage.

The UK is now faced with an economic reality that is predicted to be four percentage points worse off compared to remaining in the EU. This has resulted in the closure of numerous UK businesses, which struggle to maintain trade with their closest market. The damage to the economy has been severe, with the political elite, including the Conservative party, which initiated this ideological experiment, paying the price for their missteps.

The Ongoing Political Crisis

The current political situation in the UK is one of deepening crisis. The conservative coalition, which has been in power since the Brexit referendum, is facing a wave of criticism and calls for change. The high cost of living, inflation, and the persistently high unemployment figures are just some of the challenges that have contributed to a growing sense of discontent.

As the 25-year election looms on the horizon, it is clear that the Conservative party will face a significant challenge. The election could mark the beginning of a new era, with new political forces emerging to challenge the status quo. The demand for change is palpable, and the frustration with the current leadership is high.

Conclusion: Back to the Drawing Board

The post-Brexit situation in the UK has underscored the need for a more considered and pragmatic approach to governance. As the chaos continues, the electorate is likely to demand a return to the basics, with a renewed focus on effective housekeeping and a willingness to make necessary changes to improve the lives of the British public. Marking the end of a failed experiment, the UK will need to rediscover its path to stability and progress.