With Brexit, Theresa May has one of the toughest jobs in the world and deserves respect

British Prime Minister Theresa May has one of the toughest jobs in the world today (“British PM May vows to hold nerve amid EU impasse”, 23 September). She was not an advocate of Brexit. However, as prime minister, she is obliged to execute the decision of the nation.

Brexit continues to be a controversial issue in Britain and Europe. The referendum in 2016 indicated that Britain itself was almost equally divided between leaving or staying. The Brexit victory was marginal. The European Union was understandably distraught over Britain opting out. Obviously, the EU would make the divorce difficult.

Separations and divorces are painful and protracted. Britain would like as many arrangements as possible, for trade, commerce, finance and so on, to continue. Nevertheless, the EU will not let Britain have its cake and eat it too.

Now May has to walk a tightrope between keeping as many privileges as possible and jettisoning the EU. This will call for tough negotiations and a thick skin. Former prime minister David Cameron chose to walk out on the job, since he did not want to be entangled in a cause he did not believe in and which was fraught with nasty negotiations.

May picked up the gauntlet. So, she may have to suffer some setbacks and humiliations. She deserves the support and understanding of her countrymen as she undertakes the tough mission the nation has thrust on her. Her job is unenviable.