What Does Hammond's Talk To The CBI Really Mean?

On 3 July 2917 the UK's Chancellor, Philip Hammond, spoke to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

He sought to calm fears over Brexit by stating, as reported by the BBC:

1. The UK needs a "Brexit outcome that protects jobs and prosperity"
2. The right Brexit outcome would mean: “A comprehensive free trade deal in goods and services that allows the complex value chains that criss-cross our continent to continue to operate smoothly." and "A customs arrangement that minimises friction at the border"
3. Plus “A future relationship that acknowledges our need to manage migration but allows British businesses and public services to continue to recruit the labour they need to deliver both economic growth and our social objectives.”

He could just as easily have added "The best way to achieve these objectives is to stay in the EU, but negotiate better control over migration".  Migration is the major issue for British voters who voted to Leave.  There are other things some people dislike about the EU, such as the European Court of Justice (ECJ) overriding Westminster in enforcing the rules of the EU.  But that is of less interest to the majority of voters.

What is more important is a recent poll has shown 60% of voters want to remain a European citizen to retain their EU rights.  That rises to 85% for 18-24 year olds who will be most affected. How best to achieve that?  Simply by remaining in the EU.

When David Cameron tried to negotiate better terms for the UK's membership of the EU, the assumption on all sides was that the British public would not vote to leave.  Now they have voted to leave, that makes it easier to negotiate changes to immigration rules, such as an emergency brake.  That's not to remove the core principle of free movement of people, but be able to deal with excessive migration. 

Leaving the EU is a sledgehammer to crack the migration nut.  A total waste of time, effort and money.  One recent report suggests a loss to the British economy of between £25bn and £36bn a year.  That means substantially less tax, and so less money for the NHS and other public services.  The referendum was only a 'starting gun' and does not preclude the UK changing its mind democratically.  The EU have said we can.  #StopBrexit is vital.

The next question is:  Would Philip Hammond be prepared to be part of the anti-Brexxit campaign?