The recent elections in Britain have resulted in the victory of Boris Johnson of the Conservative Party, paving way for his role as the Prime Minister. This win signifies a decisive mandate for Boris Johnson to expedite the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union (EU).
The Premise for Early Elections
In an attempt to accelerate the Brexit process, Johnson strategized a de facto Brexit referendum through the polls. His aim was to consolidate the pro-Brexit vote and secure a robust mandate in the Parliament. This move was preceded by a new divorce deal that Johnson had negotiated with the EU.
The Brexit Financial Settlement
The divorce bill, officially known as the Brexit Financial Settlement, is a substantial sum that the UK must pay to the EU in order to fulfill all financial obligations acquired during its EU membership period.
Referendum to Leave the EU
In 2016, the UK government conducted a referendum where the nation voted in favor of leaving the EU. This initiated the withdrawal process, which is currently under the supervision of the UK Parliament. The primary motivation for Brexit supporters is the restoration of full control over UK’s borders and the reduction of immigration.
The Impact on Britain
Brexit is expected to bolster nationalism in the country and enforce stricter laws on immigration. However, it also presents some economic challenges. Britain must navigate the complex process of establishing new bilateral trade agreements with various countries, including India.
| Concerns | Details |
|---|---|
| Immigration Laws | Brexit could result in tougher immigration laws |
| Economic Challenges | New bilateral trade agreements need to be negotiated |
| Scottish Independence | Scottish National party’s victory might fuel pro-independence sentiments |
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Controversies
Despite a win at the polls, the road ahead for Johnson is not devoid of obstacles. The Brexit agreement itself has sparked controversy, as it could establish an effective customs border between Britain and the island of Ireland. This raises concerns about the impact of Brexit on the Good Friday Agreement.
The Good Friday Agreement
The Good Friday Agreement, also known as the Belfast Agreement, was a peace accord between the British and Irish governments and most of the political parties in Northern Ireland. It outlined how Northern Ireland should be governed.
Negotiating Future Relations with the EU
Striking a deal on the UK’s future relationship with the EU is a daunting task. Complicating matters further is the Scottish National Party’s sweeping victory in Scotland, which might reignite pro-independence sentiments. In a 2014 referendum, the Scottish population voted to stay in the UK and remain part of the EU, rejecting independence by a margin of 55% to 45%.