We need to talk about Brexit
Some readers wish it wasn’t happening, while others would happily see ‘no deal’ become reality, says Chris Stevenson
One of the stories that has caught my attention this week are reports that trade deal talks between the UK and Japan have apparently veered off course over stilton. Yes, you can see I have a nose for the news.
The international trade secretary, Liz Truss, has seemingly insisted on making blue cheese part of the negotiations, so UK makers can get preferential treatment. The two nations were believed to have already reached “consensus” in all major areas of a prospective deal last week and there were hopes the deal would be done by the end of the month. Well hard cheese, seemingly.
Readers should get used to this, I think. With the deadline approaching for a deal with the EU, the government will be looking to get on terms with as many nations as possible, whatever the outcome with our neighbours on the continent.
Brexit has always been one topic to get readers animated, whether for the split, against it – or because of all the waiting and back-and-forth negotiations. We always enjoy reading your comments and letters, and expect you all to tell us what areas you want us to cover over the next few months. What is clear is that negotiators on all sides have a tough task on their hands.
The UK withdrawal from the EU will no doubt be back on the agenda when parliament returns from summer recess – along with the economic impact of the coronavirus and lockdown measures. It should be, there isn’t long left to secure the best possible deal we can.
I know that some readers wish it wasn’t happening, while others would happily see “no deal” become a reality. One thing you can rely on is that we will be here to guide you through all of the twists and turns that are to come before the end of the year.
Yours,
Chris Stevenson
Editor of Voices