Build a Britain with opportunity for all
LAST week’s referendum was the biggest political decision our nation has ever made. In the wake of a historic result, our party finds itself at a crossroads. Do we divide, or unite? Do we drag our heels, or enact the nation’s wishes? Do we soft-pedal our agenda, or pick up the pace? And do we ignore the uncomfortable truths that arose from the referendum, or confront them, head on?
The government I intend to lead will choose the latter path – a path of optimism and pragmatism, which, I believe, will lead Britain to better days.
First, we must unite. Just over a year ago, every Conservative MP was elected on a manifesto that committed us to holding a referendum. The campaign is now over. We cannot allow this leadership election to be defined by divisive labels like “Remainer” and “Brexiteer”. The quicker we can focus on the future, the better chance we have to unite our party and the country.
Second, we will enact the British people’s wishes on the EU. The verdict was clear: there is no going back. A second referendum is out of the question. What the country needs now is a clear direction, not further instability.
I want to lead a government that delivers on the expectations of the 17 million people who voted for Britain to leave the EU. One of the overwhelming messages from that vote was the need to take back control of immigration policy in the UK. So for me, freedom of movement is a red line.
We now have a vital opportunity to craft an immigration policy that is outward looking, ensures we get the skills we need, and is ultimately decided in the UK. That will mean tough negotiations with Europe. [Business Secretary] Sajid Javid knows that we have the potential to secure a deal which protects UK business and workers, and provides access to Europe’s single market.
And these negotiations must reflect the needs of every part of the United Kingdom – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. To guarantee this, I’ll be creating an advisory council, bringing together the administrations of all parts of the UK.
Third, we simply must deliver what we promised in our manifesto. At its heart is building a strong economy that delivers opportunities, regardless of the circumstances of someone’s birth. Ours may be one of the fastestgrowing economies in the world, but there is still a deficit left to clear, red tape to cut, opportunities to be created, jobs to secure, houses to build, schools to improve, and global trade links to be secured. As Work and Pensions Secretary, I’ve worked flat out to reach those furthest from the jobs market, who are at risk of feeling like society has left them behind.
Fourth, we will listen. This referendum has cast a harsh light on the deep economic and social divisions that still blight our country. There are communities who haven’t felt the benefits of globalisation and still suffer the aftershocks of the 2008 financial crash. People are stuck on low wages – even no wages – despairing at their hollowed-out town centres. So my government will confront it, spreading opportunities to every corner of Britain. The modern compassionate Conservative Party will tear down the barriers that hold people back.