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Thoughts on the "new" LibDem Brexit position that they will simply revoke A50 if they get an overall majority [new part] or back a referendum with a remain option and campaign for remain if they don't...
1. It's the logical end state for a party whose slogan is "Stop Brexit"
1. It's the logical end state for a party whose slogan is "Stop Brexit"
2. Is it an inclusive offer across the entire electorate? No. It leaves out those who still want to Leave more than they want to get on with all the rest of the things we should be doing
3. But it is the first time the 48% (now probably more) will have an option *just for them*
3. But it is the first time the 48% (now probably more) will have an option *just for them*
4. Since we have to make do with the wholly inadequate FPTP electoral system, they don't need to win over a majority of the country, not even close.
5. Clarity is like gold dust in the Brexit debate. The Brexit Party has it. Now (hopefully - needs approval) the LD do to.
5. Clarity is like gold dust in the Brexit debate. The Brexit Party has it. Now (hopefully - needs approval) the LD do to.
6. It is quite possible the Tories will pivot to "no deal" as their manifesto position so the BP steps out of the way. That will multiply the calls to put no deal on a 2nd referendum ballot (maybe as the *only* Leave option) if they are the largest party but have no majority.
7. Everyone across the political spectrum seems to be calling for Brexit "to end" i.e. "just get it over". We know the only way to fulfil that is to revoke A50 and remain. A no deal Brexit doesn't end Brexit, it kicks off the even harder negotiations.
8. So even though the LD offer won't match what Leavers want (to leave the EU) it will match other aspects of what they want (make all this Brexit chaos stop).
9. As such, it may have wider appeal than detractors think.
9. As such, it may have wider appeal than detractors think.
10. To answer the charge that revoking A50 would be undemocratic: the LDs would only do so if they were a majority Government. Under FPTP (inadequate I know) that would mean that it *would* be democratic since they'd have over 50% of MPs.
11. Finally, to add a note of pragmatism: Labour's all things to all people stance may be the most "fair" if you look at the 52/48 split of the referendum. But fairness and political expediency are awkward bedfellows. The LD's offer would be the *least harmful* for the UK.
