Theresa May’s Chequers plan looks less and less like a ‘plan’ every day with ministers reportedly calling it a dud
The PM's offer to the EU, seemed the only viable Brexit option capable of winning Commons approval — yet it has been unambiguously trashed
Plan down pan
THERESA May’s Chequers plan looks less and less like a “plan” every day.
We have reluctantly said before that this offer to the EU, as over-generous as it is, seemed the only viable Brexit option capable of winning Commons approval.
But it has been unambiguously trashed by Brussels, is loathed by many Remain MPs and most Brexiteers. When Jacob Rees-Mogg met Michel Barnier yesterday, both reportedly agreed it was a dud.
Its chances of approval anywhere look negligible. If Mrs May softens it further for the EU she’s toast. If she hardens it for Brexiteers, it’s even less likely to fly.
Whatever Downing Street says, it’s not a plan if it has no possibility of proceeding. And if it’s a non-starter, isn’t it time to accept it and focus on a more basic free trade deal? Even if it means a small amount of disruption at the Irish border?
There’s no guarantee that will get through the Commons either. But it would fulfil the wishes of Leave voters and Brexit-backing MPs — and is far more likely to get the nod in Brussels.
Brexit is just six months away. It would be insane to waste time on a proposal with apparently zero chance of success.
On your Marks
WE have had some harsh words for Bank of England boss Mark Carney.
He was ceaselessly gloomy about Brexit and often appeared to act as spokesman for George Osborne’s Project Fear brigade.
But we never doubted his skills. And we can see big advantages if he fancies staying on for another year after his scheduled leaving date next June.
The financial markets will need all the consistency and stability they can get as we exit the EU next March. Changing the head of the Bank of England won’t help.
The Canadian is a serious figure. Keeping him at the helm would offer a welcome degree of calm.
But he will also need a laser-like focus on helping to supercharge our economy for a new era of pioneering independence, with low interest rates and inflation combined with lower taxes.
He will need to ensure the world knows Britain is open for business.
Our economy is ticking along despite all the uncertainty produced by foolish Remainer doom-mongering. Imagine the massive boost to growth ready to be unleashed once we know for sure what Brexit looks like.
Forget Project Fear . . . if he stays, Mr Carney can be in charge of Project Hope.
Great innings
HE has played 160 Tests, made 12,254 runs and hit 32 tons — all England records.
Alastair Cook is not the showiest batsman we’ve ever had. But he is the greatest. And a thoroughly decent bloke.
The Sun wishes him well in international retirement.
Thanks for every knock, Cooky.