Nine years since the UK voted by a narrow margin to leave the EU: we need to begin the process of returning, say Greens
On the ninth anniversary of the Brexit referendum, Ellie Chowns MP, Green Party spokesperson on foreign affairs, said:
“Today marks nine years since the UK voted to leave the EU, a decision for which the costs have been painfully real for families, businesses and our planet. Over nearly a decade we have seen our economy shrink, exporters lose vital markets, and barriers impede the cultural collaborations we once took for granted. Meanwhile young people face restricted opportunities to live, learn, and work across Europe, and our climate ambitions are weakened by being out of step with our closest neighbours.
“As Greens, we believe the best way to restore prosperity, protect the environment, and strengthen security is to rebuild the partnership we walked away from. Rejoining the EU would mean frictionless trade for British manufacturers and farmers, renewed freedom of movement for students and young workers, and deeper cooperation on climate, defence, and innovation. Poll after poll shows a majority of Britons recognise that Brexit was a mistake; the question now is when, not if, we begin the process of returning to the fold.
“On this anniversary, I call on the government to show the courage to initiate talks on what re-entry to the EU would involve—recognising that the world has changed, but our mutual interests remain vital. Britain’s future belongs in Europe: let this day be a reminder that our greatest hope lies in cooperation, not isolation.”
