In a forceful critique of Brexit, former Conservative deputy prime minister Michael Heseltine has argued that Boris Johnson and Nigel Farage should “hang their heads in shame” for the profound damage inflicted on the nation through their leadership of the Leave campaign. As the UK marks a decade since the historic referendum, Heseltine asserts that the fallout from Brexit has revealed the falsehoods surrounding the promises made to the public. His remarks come amid a growing sentiment among voters advocating for a second referendum and a potential rejoining of the European Union.
A Decade of Disillusionment
Reflecting on the ten years since the Brexit vote, Heseltine has highlighted what he describes as the “bankruptcy” of the claims made by Brexit proponents. He argues that the British populace was misled, calling it a “heinous crime” that warrants rectification. In a piece for The Independent, he champions a renewed relationship with the EU, suggesting that the time has come for Britain to reclaim its position as a significant European player.
New polling data underscores Heseltine’s concerns, revealing that nearly half of the UK public supports the idea of a second referendum, including a surprising 20% of voters from Farage’s own Reform UK party. The Ipsos survey, conducted in collaboration with King’s College London and UK in a Changing Europe, indicates a shift in public opinion, with many now favouring closer ties with the EU. Notably, the percentage of individuals who believe Brexit is failing to meet expectations has surged from 27% in 2021 to 48% today.
The Fallout of Brexit
Heseltine, a passionate advocate for European integration, emphasised that there has been a notable absence of praise from leading Brexiteers regarding the outcomes of their campaign. He provocatively questioned, “Where are the paeons of praise to Brexit” from figures like Johnson and Farage, who once promised a prosperous future outside the EU.
In his scathing assessment, he labelled the Brexit campaign as a “self-imposed disaster”, asserting that it has created unnecessary barriers between the UK and its largest trading partner. Heseltine elaborated on the detrimental effects of Brexit on various sectors, including manufacturing, services, and cultural exchange. “We have left our diplomats waiting in the corridors to learn what decisions are being made with profound consequences for us,” he lamented.
The Changing Political Landscape
The former deputy prime minister’s comments come at a time when public opinion seems to be evolving. Many who supported Brexit are now reconsidering their stance as the economic and social ramifications become clearer. Heseltine noted that the original warnings about Brexit’s potential drawbacks, dismissed as “Project Fear” during the campaign, have now become a reality. He referred to this shift as “Project Here,” signifying the need for the country to confront the current challenges head-on.
Despite the government’s hesitance to openly discuss rejoining the EU, Heseltine argues for a timely reassessment of Britain’s relationship with Europe. He believes that fostering closer ties is essential not only for the country’s economic viability but also for the future of younger generations. “As a European partner, we can compete with the world’s largest economies,” he stated.
Why it Matters
The implications of Heseltine’s statements extend beyond mere political rhetoric; they speak to a broader societal reckoning with the choices made during the Brexit campaign. As public opinion shifts and calls for a second referendum grow louder, the discourse surrounding Britain’s place in Europe is likely to intensify. Heseltine’s call for a reversal of Brexit serves as a reminder of the ongoing debates that will shape the future of the UK, underscoring the necessity of examining the past to inform the path forward. As the nation grapples with the repercussions of its decision, the possibility of re-engagement with the EU may become an increasingly pressing issue on the political agenda.
