EU think it’s all over? Think again

AFTER almost 47 years, MPs yesterday voted to leave the European Union.

It has been two-and-a-half years since the EU referendum and many – both Leave and Remain supporters – might breathe a sigh of relief that we finally have some clarity. But don’t be fooled by Boris Johnson’s bluster. He was elected on a promise to “Get Brexit Done”. But if you believe that yesterday’s vote is an end to the matter, you need your bumps felt.

This is just the start of a long and ruinous road that will see many more twists and turns as we divorce from our main trading partners on the continent.

A quick glance at the Brexit vote in Parliament yesterday is enough to make anyone travel sick on this journey.

Workers’ rights currently protected by the EU? Removed from the agreement. Rights for child refugees? Also taken out.

Parliamentary scrutiny of the Government’s continuing talks with the EU have been ripped from the agreement.

This is a deal that gives us the worst kind or Brexit – one that benefits the rich and big business but sells out everybody else. And for Scotland, where we voted overwhelmingly to Remain, the consequences of Brexit will be felt for a very long time.

In the short term, there is the trade deal with Europe still to thrash out, and that could affect every business – and worker – in the country. Long term, there is Scotland’s own constitutional future to decide as we face life in an increasingly right-wing UK dominated by Johnson’s little England delusions.

Where we end up is anybody’s guess. But you’d better strap in – because it’s going to be a bumpy ride.