It’s often difficult to figure out what those over on the left really think about Brexit. There are, or at least have been, a few who are clear about matters, Tony Benn being a notable one. They realise that the socialist wet dreams cannot be enacted within the constraints of the European Union’s rules. Thus, out so that we can enact the socialist wet dreams and bring on the economic success of Venezuela. Sure, we may not agree with them but at least they’re open about it all and consistent.
The others though, they seem to be only in favour of whatever it is the Tories aren’t. Fair enough in an opposition you might think but there are times when being agin’ isn’t enough. But that is where we find Owen Jones:
[perfectpullquote align=”full” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]So what next? Pressure must be exerted on May to soften her deal; it’s notable that the European council president Donald Tusk has already suggested that Labour’s plans could break the deadlock. If Britain heads towards a “common market 2.0” solution – remaining within the customs union and single market – as Labour backbenchers such as Lucy Powell argue, freedom of movement will continue, and Labour must make the passionate pro-migrant argument it has, sadly, failed to make since 2016. But it is hard not to conclude that, whatever the outcome of this episode of the Brexit farce, we are approaching the season finale.[/perfectpullquote]Staying in the customs union and single market would be staying in the EU in effect. The argument is that we should have Brexit by not having Brexit at all that is. Which is odd for one like Owen Jones who so bangs on about democratic control of the economy. We did have a vote on this and the plurality was indeed to leave.
What’s rather worse about it though is that I seriously doubt Jones could tell us why this should be the solution? Other than that it’s just what the Tories don’t want and therefore must be good. Which really isn’t enough thought nor logic going on, is it?
It is worse than that isn’t it? At least if we stayed in the EU we would have the opportunity to influence (or in some areas even veto) discussions and decisions being made. Labour plans seem to be to be under their control but not sat at the table, which whatever your views on Europe has got to be the absolute worst position possible.
How does uncontrolling immigration and uncontrolled trade fit into Owen’s “the state must control everything” mindset?