Hi everybody.
Just to try and bring this thread back to some meaningful discussion, I did feel that Jeremy Corbyns speech in Coventry yesterday (26th February) pointed out very well the dilemma facing Britain in regard to Brexit. Corbyn outlined the problems of a Company such as BMW in the production of the Mini series with some heavy components crossing the North sea or English channel three or four times before final assembly in Britain.
In the above Britain not being in the customs union would be a major disincentive to continuing long term plans for production in Britain for a company such as BMW. However, I do not doubt that should the United Kingdom wish to remain in the customs union, then this country will have to accept the free movement of labour the acceptance of which played a major part in the Brexit vote.
However, should Britain decide not to remain in the customs union and free trade area, then undoubtedly this country will be free to develop trade with other countries outside the European Union. That stated, in developing trade with countries such as India, China and others, we would have to recognise the fact that those countries have workplace regulations and wages well below those of this country. Therefore, a reduction in the United Kingdoms workplace regulations and wages would be necessary if the UK is to be at all competitive in its trading with such countries.
The above would undoubtedly I feel bring about even greater inequality and divisions within this country that may bring about "wholesale instability" with perhaps a further break up of the Union to the detriment of all.
A dilemma indeed, which needs much serious discussion and consideration before we as a nation move further forward in our negotiations with our European counterparts. The single factor that brings forward some outlook in this situation would be that views are being formed across party lines rather than through traditional "tribal party lines" regardless of whatever Theresa May or Jeremy Corbyn are stating.