Has Remain Accepted Defeat in the EU Referendum?

The question of whether Remain has accepted defeat in the EU Referendum is a matter of perspective. As long as the Leave campaign continues to prop up unsupported positions, deny failures, or blame others for their shortcomings, there can be no true acknowledgment of defeat. The referendum itself was a difficult choice between an unworkable and impossible option versus one that is deeply unpleasant but manageable.

Accepting defeat in a context where the victors have achieved a Pyrrhic victory—that is, a hollow or costly success—is complex. When the leaders of the winning side can only resort to mob tactics to enforce a conclusion that is fragmenting before our eyes, it is challenging to see how such a victory can be considered meaningful.

The Unraveling of the Leave Campaign

In the face of parliamentary chaos and an opposition unable to effectively oppose, the Leave campaign has further divided the ruling party. The looming threat of a general election is likely to result in a Corbyn wipeout and a Parliament challenging the Tory party itself. This situation is far from ideal, and the potential for political instability is high. Some Tory factions may resort to extreme measures, such as campaigning for fox hunting, a position that is in stark contrast to the challenges they now face.

A Probable General Election and Political Fallout

The uncertain political landscape post-Brexit referendum means that a general election is imminent. The Labour Party, as the opposition, is likely to suffer significant electoral setbacks. The Conservative Party, once united, is now fragmented, and this division may lead to a testing period for the governing coalition. The leadership of the Conservative Party is likely to face scrutiny and potential changes.

The Nature of Democracy and Opposition

It is important to understand the nature of democracy and the role of opposition. In a democratic system, people are allowed to have differing views, and the opposition plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable. If Leavers believe that the mere fact of their victory entitles them to silence their critics and the opposition, they miss a fundamental point about democracy.

Leavers argue that since they won the referendum, no one should oppose their actions. However, this is not how democratic systems operate. If a government abuses its powers or makes disastrous decisions, it is the job of the opposition to challenge and correct those errors. Using the argument that 'We won, so just shut up' is a miscarriage of democracy and an abuse of power.

Consequences of Brexiteer Logic

The consequences of accepting Brexiteer logic can be severe. Leavers argue that anyone who voted for an alternative to the winning side should remain silent until the next election. This not only silences legitimate dissent but also undermines the very principles of democracy. In a general election, it is the collective will of the people that matters, and opposing voices are essential for a healthy and functioning democracy.

Moreover, allowing the government to act without restraint based solely on a majority vote sets a dangerous precedent. It can lead to tyranny and authoritarianism, particularly if the government enforces its will through smear campaigns and attempts to silence critics. As seen with some ex-Tory councillors who attempted to silence critics with their 'traitor' rhetoric, such tactics are met with public backlash.

The Legacy of Brexit

Ultimately, Brexit was a referendum based on lies, distortions, and wilful ignorance. Those who presented a consistent and informed argument were dismissed, and those expressing concerns were labelled as scaremongers. The result was a Pyrrhic victory for the Leave campaign.

It is unrealistic to expect Remain to accept the negative consequences of Brexit quietly. Democracy thrives on debate and criticism, and it is the duty of both the government and the opposition to ensure that the health of the democratic process is maintained. Just as Leavers cannot deny the catastrophic mistake of their decision to leave the EU, so must they accept the challenges that Brexit will bring and address them head-on.

The referendum result was a reflection of the voters' choices, but it does not absolve the government or the people of responsibility for the consequences. It is vital that all sides engage in informed and constructive dialogue to navigate the complexities of Brexit.