Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, has called for Britain to rejoin the European single market, marking a significant shift in the political debate over Brexit. Speaking at a European Movement event in London on the anniversary of the 2016 referendum, Davey described Brexit as a failed experiment and argued that the world has changed dramatically since then.
A Changed World Changes the Argument
The Guardian editorial supports Davey's stance, noting that the economic and strategic realities have evolved. Membership of the single market was a key issue during the Brexit campaign, but it was overshadowed by immigration concerns. The leave campaign's false promises of a cost-free separation have been debunked, and the costs of rupture are now evident after a decade of stunted growth.
Public Opinion Shifts
Opinion polls consistently show a majority would now vote to reverse the referendum outcome. Davey's speech reflects this change, emphasizing that Britain's need for competitive advantages through liberation from Brussels was misguided, especially with Donald Trump's tariff policies and Russia's war in Ukraine.
Challenges Remain
Despite the logical arguments, domestic politics and anti-immigration sentiment remain obstacles. Davey acknowledges the difficulty, but insists that arguments for integration will only gain ground when politicians have the courage to make them. The Lib Dems' position is not likely to be enacted soon, but it opens the door for necessary reconsideration.
