Fascinating (and telling) discussion being chaired by @CER_Grant at #LabourConference on how Labour would rebuild relations with Europe with @hilarybennmp @lisanandy @JennyChapman ...and how quickly it collapses into 2017-style cakeism /1
@CER_Grant @hilarybennmp @lisanandy @JennyChapman So @lisanandy says not realistic that labour campaigns on rejoining customs union and single market...and @JennyChapman wants to rebuild the relationship 'bit by bit'...but doesn't want to engage with the 'ratchet' that leads to a 'Norway for Now' relationship./2
@CER_Grant @hilarybennmp @lisanandy @JennyChapman Then @hilarybennmp talks about Ukraine agreement as a template -- but that's an agreement predicated on a state moving towards membership.
And as all three dodge specifics, the discussion collapses into an appeal for "good will and flexibility" from the EU. /3
And as all three dodge specifics, the discussion collapses into an appeal for "good will and flexibility" from the EU. /3
@CER_Grant @hilarybennmp @lisanandy @JennyChapman I get the political sensitivities here, but it is eerily reminiscent of the 2017 discussion and the abject failure to understand the European Commission and how it works....and the trade offs that will be involved. /4
@CER_Grant @hilarybennmp @lisanandy @JennyChapman On the upside, as @JennyChapman observes, when the time comes -- if it ever comes -- the "toxicity" around that 2017 conversation will have dissipated. The electorate may be more receptive to trade offs needed for vet deal, mobility chapter...and the benefits they'll bring./5
And then @lisanandy ends with a pledge that the conversation will be honest -- "but never again can we be in a situation where we make those choices without involving the public in those decisions" -- because last time the Party failed to level with its public. ENDS
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