Time for Brexit talks to get serious

BRITAIN leaving the European Union continues to be a saga, mainly due to the egos of the direct players and the egos of those who would like to be direct players. The latter group, most of whom have vested interests in their desired outcomes, continue to muddy the waters. Of course, it is also in the interests of the UK and European media that there be this confusion, because this leads to lots of flamboyant headlines, interviews with celebrity pundits and sales which keep their advertisers in line.

Oops, a bit of cynicism has crept in, so perhaps a dose of cold realism is necessary. I know you have heard it before, but the facts of the case are worth reiterating. Britain voted to leave the EU, never mind the statistical arguments and it will leave on a certain date, with a few months of "transition" from one way of existence to another. At the end of that time, Britain will be a totally independent nation, with its own borders, its own fish and the freedom to deal with other nations and their peoples as it sees fit. It is high time that all parties to the negotiations and all commentators recognise this and prepare for the future accordingly.

There will not be a second referendum, there will not be a customs union with the EU and none of the current EU laws and regulations will apply, unless specifically entered into British law, by the choice of the British people. Anything else will be an abrogation of democracy.