If it were a referendum, what options would be presented?

I’ve come round to the idea given how much has changed in the last 3 years and joe public knows a lot more of the reality of the situation.

But the options would need to be such that the outcome would have a chance of being respected.

If the options are a soft brexit deal or remain, that doesn’t cater sufficiently for those that voted leave first time round. Any second referendum surely has to start from a position that the country has voted for brexit, this is what’s on offer in terms of a deal (with an eye on the key issues that compelled people to vote leave, eg immigration and what have you, so not a totally soft exit), or remain. Chuck in no deal if you dare!

Johnson seems to be banking on a majority government. Seems very unlikely, so what’s his plan if he doesn’t get it? A confirmatory referendum based on his deal, perhaps?

I don’t distinguish between the parties based on brexit policy, they’re both dealing with an impossible situation. There’s no magic answer. Johnson makes me nervous though given overall I’m a remainer.

I don’t think Corbyn’s economic policies are in the long term interests of the country, i subscribe to the view that a thriving economy is the starting point to dealing with issues of debt and the NHS etc. and I don’t think corbyn’s suggestions will help with that. Upping the spending on public service sounds essential, but if the UK debt levels go up to achieve this and the economy continues to stagnate, the long-term outlook is bleak. Not saying austerity is the answer though. However, I don’t subscribe to trickle down economics, Tory policy on those who need help seems pretty unpalatable. Without intervention to redress the balance, a booming economy helps the rich get richer and doesn’t help the poorer elements of society to the same extent - but that doesn’t mean a booming economy shouldn’t be the target.

Also interesting looking at the bbc article on tax burden at different levels of income, and how in the uk high earners (v high in this example) pay a comparative rate to other countries in europe, but those earning the median salary (£28k) pay considerably less in the Uk than elsewhere. Would like to see that analysis for a greater range of earners. I don’t think Corbyn’s approach of increasing the burden on those that earn a high salary seems quite right in that context.

So having factored all of those things in, there is no party that represents my way of thinking.

I’ve rambled on a bit there. 🙄

Posted By: SimonOTBC, Nov 20, 13:04:04