One of the most fascinating aspects of this discussion and many like it is the notion that the EU institutions impose things on the U.K. Oddly enough we’re an influential full member of the EU up to now, so most of the rules and institutions represent a broad consensus of which we have been a party. We have opposed a few things along the way and in fairness it must be said we haven’t won many of those but we’ve also originated many and so led the way on them.
Re-establishing a relationship with the EU is not a trivial piece of work and the consequences of having no relationship at all will be messy to put it mildly. Currently we know how things work, legally, politically, socially and commercially. If we just walk away with no agreement all of that certainty simply disappears overnight. That doesn’t just affect our relationship with the EU, Our other trading partners work with us under EU arrangements so all that goes for a burton too.
After two years I’m still waiting for someone to balance this dog’s breakfast with a single benefit.