The statement suggests that leaving the European Union, commonly known as Brexit, would be a highly challenging endeavor with significant negative consequences unless Britain were willing to endure substantial harm to its own interests and wellbeing. Essentially, it implies that achieving a successful Brexit is not feasible without causing considerable damage to Britain.
Delving deeper into the quote reveals a critique of the underlying assumptions behind the Brexit movement. It highlights the impracticality of expecting to retain all the benefits of EU membership while cutting ties with the union altogether. The phrase "massive self-harm" underscores the severe economic, political, and social repercussions that might ensue from such an endeavor. Moreover, it questions the feasibility of a clean break without accepting certain compromises or conditions set by other European nations, which could lead to Britain facing unfavorable terms as it navigates its new relationship with the EU.
The quote is attributed to Andrew Adonis, Baron Adonis, who has had a long and distinguished career in British politics and academia. He served as a Labour Party member of the House of Lords and held various ministerial positions within the UK government, including Transport Secretary under Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Adonis’s insights often draw from his extensive experience in public policy and his understanding of Britain's complex relationship with Europe.
