How will history judge key players in this time of turmoil we’re living through?
I regret that I will not be here 100 years from now to see the political and economic outcome of this quite exceptional drama which has been thrust upon us and is about to change the course of history for future generations throughout the European Community and perhaps beyond. In the absence of a crystal ball we can but speculate on how the forthcoming years of discussion will determine politi- cal alliances and the pattern of world trade, and despite the Prime Minister’s commitment to “certainty and stability” there must be doubt about her ability to deliver with so much completely outwith the control of whoever holds the reins of power in the UK.
It is a situation which few could have foreseen until the fateful decision to hold a referendum was made by David Cameron two years ago. With hindsight, in recognition of the enormity of the decision to be made, a format requiring a Brexit vote of 55 per cent may have been politically acceptable and the absence of which was clearly decisive.
The die was therefore cast by David Cameron, and although with unexpected results, it is probable that history will regard him as the prime mover of subsequent events. there are, of course, others both within the Cabinet and on the Conservative backbenches who may be regarded as major contributors in the brexit campaign and whose influence was almost certainly decisive in achieving a 52 per cent vote in favour of leaving the European Community. Historians will no doubt evaluate the contribution of each, with Theresa May sure to be given special prominence in the determination of the shape of things to come. We must also pay homage to Nigel Farage as the éminence gris of the winning team and recognise his particular populist skills in identifying the fears of many and focussing on these fears with an effective marketing strategy in which wishful thinking may have been a factor.
It is far from certain how Europe will look in the next century but there is little doubt that, for better or for worse, the changes about to take place will have a major impact on the life of our descendants.
My only regret is not being present when historians of the future come to their conclusions about the whole Brexit exercise and the role played by various supporters. It is just possible some would have preferred to remain anonymous… ROBERT MITCHELL
Matthews Drive Newtongrange, Midlothian