Boris Johnson's Brexit Dilemma: Self-Interest and Regret

In recent years, the notion of Brexit has been a politically charged and deeply divided issue. A central figure in this debate is former Prime Minister Boris Johnson. This article delves into Boris Johnson's stance on Brexit, exploring whether he has privately wondered if it was a good idea and if there are any regrets he might have.

Johnson's Initial Stance on Brexit

Boris Johnson first aligned himself with Brexit for self-interest. His decision came after former Prime Minister David Cameron declared a pro-Remain stance. This move was seen as a power play rather than an expression of genuine conviction. Johnson and other pro-Brexit figures like Nigel Farage have faced criticism for not taking responsibility for the aftermath of the decision, even though their actions contributed to the current situation.

Anti-Brexit Sentiments from Johnson

Interestingly, there is evidence that Boris Johnson has expressed doubts about Brexit. In an unpublished piece he wrote, Johnson articulated some of his concerns, especially regarding the geopolitical impact. The piece reads:

And then there is the whole geostrategic anxiety. Britain is a great nation and a global force for good. It is surely a boon for the world and for Europe that she should be intimately engaged in the EU. This is a market on our doorstep ready for further exploitation by British firms: the membership fee seems rather small for all that access.

While his writing is as polished as his haircuts, Johnson has indeed expressed these sentiments in private.

The Reality of Brexit

One must consider the reality of the situation. Johnson did not vote for Brexit; it was mostly UK citizens who did. The process has been fraught with challenges, with the EU unwilling to provide a smooth exit. Boris Johnson was faced with numerous obstacles, both within and outside the EU, making it difficult to negotiate a favorable deal.

Furthermore, leaving the EU was not a simple operation. Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour leader at the time, would have faced similar challenges as he also opposed Brexit. The solution would have been unappealing to Brussels, as it could lead to the collapse of the EU, a scenario that no one wanted.

Analysis of Boris Johnson's Success and Legacy

Despite the challenges, Boris Johnson is credited with delivering on his promise to take the UK out of the EU, a goal that generated considerable political pressure. However, he has been questioned about whether he regrets the decision. In an interview, he affirmed his belief that leaving the EU was the right move and that there is a Leave campaign motivated by bias questions that refuse to accept defeat.

Johnson's proponents argue that the elite did not want the UK to leave, but he managed to deliver despite their expectations. While some view Brexit as a mistake due to poor leadership, Johnson's allies contend that he and his team navigated the complexities of Brexit successfully.

Conclusion: Boris Johnson's role in Brexit is complex. While he supports the decision, the path to implementation was far from straightforward. His private doubts and published thoughts on the issue provide a nuanced view of the situation. As the UK continues to navigate the aftermath of Brexit, the debate will likely continue.