A year to go as Britain stumbles towards Brexit

Prime minister Theresa May Photo: PA - Credit: PA Wire/PA Images

It is a year since Article 50 was triggered.

Which means, soberingly, this time next year Brexiteers will probably be about to celebrate their first ‘independence day’.

How depressing.

Of course Brexit could still be stopped. Any number of events might still get in the way of our exit, or at least shape the kind of exit the UK finally gets.

It has been a year of climb downs and concessions by the UK for the most part. The negotiating team have got us this far – to a transitional agreement – but it is hardly the cakeism Boris Johnson promised.

And expect more of the same in the year to come. There is no obvious way Theresa May can solve a problem like the Irish border without disappointing some very powerful backers – the DUP for a start.

Today May is conducting a tour of the UK vowing to deliver a Brexit that unites the country. That is the most unlikely outcome. Brexit has driven a wedge through the UK. One that she cannot heal by going on tour.

Talking about the whistle-stop jaunt she said: ‘I am determined that our future will be a bright one. It’s a future in which we trade freely with friends and partners across Europe and beyond.

‘Having regained control of our laws, our borders and our money, and seized the opportunities provided by Brexit, the UK will thrive as a strong and united country that works for everyone, no matter whether you voted Leave or Remain.’

I don’t believe her. It won’t work for everyone. The truth is the fudge the government is set to deliver probably won’t work for anyone.