Brexit as risk: The FOUR scenarios we could see in the coming months

Kate Whitfield — Sat, 13 Apr 2019 17:42:20 +0000

BREXIT has been delayed for a second time, with the date now set for the UK to depart the EU on October 31. But what this could mean is anything but clear.

The British political elite continue squabbling over how, when or if to get the UK out of the EU, and there still doesn’t seem to be any way to break the deadlock. Brexit has now been delayed to October 31 to allow more time to find a way forward. But this second delay is splitting opinions too, with some seeing as a sign the Brexit project could be abandoned, and others viewing at an undemocratic plot which threatens political stability in the UK.

So what could happen?

As has been the case with Brexit since its inception, it’s difficult to forecast exactly what might happen.

Brexit latest: It’s difficult to forecast exactly what might happen. (Image: Getty/Express)

1) SECOND REFERENDUM / NO BREXIT

The continuing delay gives wind to those campaigning for a second referendum or the revocation of Article 50.

Theresa May, who voted for remaining the EU in 2016, has repeatedly ruled out both of these options.

But if she is toppled, a successor might be tempted to call an election.

Over the past month, MPs twice held a series of ‘indicative votes’ on the various Brexit options aimed at breaking the stalemate.

A second referendum was the most popular option, although it fell short of reaching a majority, though it does show there is support in Parliament.

If Parliament agreed to a second referendum, Britain would probably have to ask for an extension beyond the end of October to allow enough time for a campaign.

Yet in Brussels, that idea is not outrageous – if the UK did change its mind it would illustrate the fortitude of the EU and keep one of the main powers in the bloc.

Both sides of the Brexit divide are preparing for the possibility of another referendum.

Goldman Sachs researchers give a 40 percent probability on no Brexit.

Brexit latest: Pro-Brexit protestors (Image: Getty)

2) THERESA MAY’S DEAL LIVES

Despite the repeated heave defeats in Parliament, Mrs May is still hoping to get her Brexit deal through Parliament.

She promised to resign if her deal was passed, and is in talks with the opposition to try find a way to get the deal through.

If talks with the Labour Party ultimately collapse, Mrs May has said she will accept the will of parliament on what to do next, and is warning that Brexit may never happen.

One option that could win over Labour MPs is to have a post-Brexit customs union with the EU and to align with many of the rules of the bloc’s single market.

Brexiteers and many supporters of membership both say such an option is foolish as it would leave the United Kingdom with no say over rules it would have to abide by, and be a “Brexit In Name Only”.

The EU would be happy to include a customs union membership in the deal and could do it fast.

Goldman Sachs puts a 50 percent probability on the ratification of a modified deal.

BREXIT EXPLAINED: What is the customs union? A really simple guide

Brexit latest: Anti-Brexit protestors (Image: Getty)

3) GENERAL ELECTION

If it all carries on in deadlock, Mrs May or a successor could call an election.

Britain’s next national election is not due to be held until 2022, but there are two ways an earlier vote can be called:

a) Two-thirds of parliament’s 650 lawmakers vote in favour of holding an election.

b) If a motion of no confidence in the government is passed by a simple majority of lawmakers and no party can succeed in winning the confidence of the House of Commons over the next 14 days, an election is triggered.

Brexit latest: Theresa May in Brussels this week (Image: Getty)

4) NO DEAL BREXIT

If the crisis deepens, the UK could either leave the EU without a deal unintentionally if the EU doesn’t agree any more extensions or concessions, or if a Brexit hardliner ended up in power.

This is the nightmare scenario for many businesses – stripping the world’s fifth largest economy of its complex foreign trade relationships at one stroke, it would spook financial markets and dislocate supply chains across Europe and beyond.

The political and social impact is unclear.

No deal means there would be no transition, so the exit would be abrupt.

Britain is a member of the World Trade Organization so tariffs and other terms governing its trade with the EU would be set under solely WTO rules.

Goldman puts a 10 percent probability on a no-deal exit.

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