Brexit can play a vital role in strengthening democracy across the world
SIR – World For Brexit (W4B) was launched in Washington, DC, and New York in July, and in Sydney this month, with plans to add Canada, New Zealand, India, African countries and others in the near future. It will be launched in Britain on August 27.
It was created to show support for Brexit and encourage friendly nations to embrace the opportunities it offers. As board members, we believe it is of international importance that Brexit succeeds, for the following reasons.
First, against a background of growing threats, nations with shared values need to build closer ties. Brexit means that Britain will be free to expand its relationships with countries including the US, Australia, India, Kenya, Canada and New Zealand.
Secondly, the EU is the slowestgrowing part of the world economically because it is sclerotic, corrupt and riddled with in-fighting. Membership has stopped Britain from making trade deals with friendly parts of the world, so Brexit represents a great business opportunity. For example, the US is Britain’s largest trading partner, even though we don’t currently have a trade deal. Imagine the trade possibilities once we do.
Thirdly, Britain has championed democracy all over the world. The vote to leave the EU was the largest democratic vote in British history. Implementation has already been delayed for three years – it must happen now or there will be incalculable damage to the future of global freedom and democracy.
Fourthly, the EU has a parliament that has little authority. The real power lies with the Commission, which is appointed, not elected. This acquiescence to authority must be opposed by anyone who believes in the right to self-governance and the sovereignty of nation states.
Finally, the EU has been the model for those – in the US and elsewhere – who believe that independent nations should surrender their sovereignty to an international body whose elites wield power without accountability. Brexit marks a turning point in this process – it must succeed.
W4B believes that a successful Brexit will not end on October 31, even if Britain leaves the EU as promised. A network of supporters is being created to ensure that Britain is immediately welcomed back into the wider international community. Strong relationships with like-minded nations will ensure swift trade deals, bringing economic opportunity and global benefit. We will champion the beliefs that inspired Brexit, encouraging countries that share them to work together so that free and democratic nations continue to thrive and prosper.
Peggy Grande
Chairman, World For Brexit Phil Bryant Governor of Mississippi Martha Boneta
Founder and President, Victory Coalition Strategies LLC David Berens
Executive Director, World For Brexit Jon Dobinson
CEO, Untrodden Path Ltd and four others; see telegraph.co.uk