Why Some Politicians Supported Brexit While Others Opposed It: Insights and Motivations

Do you ever wonder why the road to Brexit was littered with internal political disagreements and internal factions, each with its own reasons for supporting or opposing the move to leave the European Union (EU)? This article explores the differing motivations behind why some politicians supported Brexit, while others were against it.

The Schism Within the Conservative Party

Since the 1992 Maastricht Treaty, reinforced by the 2007 Lisbon Treaty, the Conservative Party (Tories) in the UK has been divided into two distinct factions. One faction almost mirrored the Liberal Democrats, advocating for a closer relationship with the EU, while the other faction took a more nationalist stance.

David Cameron, the then-Prime Minister, found himself in a delicate balance, catering to both factions to maintain his coalition and prevent a potential loss of parliamentary support that could have allowed Jeremy Corbyn to win the 2015 election and effectively dismantle the UK from its foundations.

Engaging with Both Sub-Groups

As a compromise, Cameron agreed to hold a referendum on whether the UK should remain in the EU. This move allowed both factions to express their opinions without immediate conflict, ensuring that both would remain on side politically.

Ironically, the referendum revealed the deep divisions within the Conservative Party. Approximately 80 of the 311 MPs voted to remain in the EU, suggesting that many within the Conservative Party lacked confidence in their ability to govern the country without the support and regulations of the EU.

A Lack of Confidence in Domestic Governance

The vote to leave the EU was not just a political decision; it was a reflection of the Conservative Party's historical relationship with the EU and the general populace's lack of faith in domestic leadership. A significant number of politicians chose to embrace the opportunity to leave, driven by a desire to protect their own interests rather than the broader interests of the nation.

Protecting Personal and Corporate Interests

One of the primary motivations for supporting the vote to leave the EU was the desire to protect personal and corporate interests, particularly for those in the financial sector. Figures like Boris Johnson, who faced a power struggle with David Cameron, and the ultra-rich who benefited from non-dom status, were keen to retain the status quo and avoid stricter EU regulations that would limit tax avoidance and offshore activities.

Johnson, in particular, sought power and wanted to remove Cameron from the Prime Minister's office. The ERG faction, comprising ultra-rich individuals and nationalists, saw the opportunity to preserve their financial advantages by sidestepping EU tax regulations.

Consequences and Reflections

The Brexit vote, driven by a combination of political maneuvering, personal interests, and a perceived lack of confidence in domestic governance, has left a lasting impact on the UK. The referendum exposed the fragmented nature of the Conservative Party and the broader political landscape in the UK.

It is a reminder that political decisions are often influenced by a complex interplay of personal goals, corporate interests, and voter sentiment, rather than a clear and unified vision for the national good.

As the UK continues to navigate the aftermath of the Brexit referendum, it is crucial to reflect on these lessons and strive for a more cohesive and confident approach to governance, free from the divisions that have characterized the past.