A Single Market future?

When uncertainty arises in any walk of life, the phrase ‘better the devil you know’ often springs to mind.

It’s a phrase likely to be given short shrift from hardline Brexiteers when it comes to the EU, however.

Two years after we voted to leave the EU, how that Brexit deal will look is still no clearer.

And the hoped-for land of opportunity outside the EU looks equally as obscure and uncertain.

Our ‘special relationship’ with our friends across the Pond is already being tested.

A looming trade war over steel and aluminium tariffs with the US does not bode well.

Theresa May is expected to express her disappointment over a Stateside decision to slap taxes on metals imported by the US.

Tariffs are likely to form a key plank of any Brexit negotiations in the future.

The most ardent of Brexiteers will only be happy if the UK pulls up the drawbridge and has nothing to do with the EU.

While we voted to leave the EU in the referendum, both Leavers and Remainers know that there has to be some leeway given on both sides to ensure we get the best deal possible.

And for the North East, in particular, the Brexit deal must protect the many tens of thousands of jobs that depend on EU trade.

The North East Brexit Group has produced a report setting out what it thinks will be in the best interests of our region.

While Brexit will be a national plan, we have to be selfish in promoting and fighting for what is best for the North East.

We may have voted to leave the EU, but if it is in our interest to remain in the Single Market, then we should stay.

Better the devil you know...