Get ready for bumpy ride

THE smoke and dust from the celebratory fireworks have blown away, we have taken back control and can look forward to spending time constructively without endlessly discussing the ways and means of parting with the EU. But can we?

We now hear that Sajid Javid was negotiating with Michel Barnier the parting of our ways with particular reference to our finance industry, the jewel in the crown of our economic prosperity.

Over the last few decades, following the decline of much of our manufacturing sector, we have achieved a dominating position in the world of money, particularly in the EU, to such an extent that it has become the mainstay of our country’s prosperity.

Mr Navid made it quite clear that in spite of our decision to make our own way in the world he expected to retain our position as financial leaders without this trade being affected by our departure from the EU.

This delusion was quickly stamped on by Mr Barnier who, quite clearly, thought such a suggestion to be unreasonable and it is evident that we are in for a long series of negotiations, the finance industry being merely a forerunner in a long process.

Common sense tells us that any form of negotiation involves a readiness to be flexible, it is not possible to get your own way on every point and it is particularly the case when negotiating a divorce settlement.

This is not a black and white situation, those who thought our leaving the EU would be a simple matter on which we could dictate our own terms will have to think again and be prepared for a long haul, many months, even years before we can be said to be on our own. And it would help the process if those who speak on our behalf do so in a spirit of co-operation rather than entitlement. Conciliation beats confrontation.

Rod Slater, Lymm