Analysis: Theresa May’s unloved Brexit plan is much like the PM herself
- Britain’s leader stuck to her guns despite widespread criticism of her and the ‘cautious’ deal for UK to leave the European Union
- EU leaders have approved the controversial deal, which tethers Britain to the bloc’s rules for years, but has yet to be presented to UK’s parliament
Sneers and scoffing have been heaped on the prime minister, yet she soldiers on. Whatever happens after Brexit – good or bad – will be because of Theresa May.
European Union leaders met on Sunday to approve May’s deal, with one declaring Britain’s withdrawal a “tragedy”.
Since May unveiled her compromise plan for leaving the EU, May has been accused of being a liar, a double-crosser and a traitor, while her Brexit plan has been condemned even by friends as a humiliation. She insists she is “doing the right thing, not the easy thing” and will “see this through”.
May can be steadfast or stubborn, as well as secretive and tough, according to allies and critics. She listens, studies, decides and then cannot be moved.
This considered, cautious Brexit is miles from the swashbuckling “global Britain” Brexit former foreign secretary Boris Johnson craved, as it tethers Britain to EU rules for years.