Brexit Update: Should Britain Stay or Should It Go?

Almost three years ago, in a move that shocked the world, the British people voted to break from the rest of the European Union (EU). Nicknamed “Brexit,” the separation of Great Britain from the EU has been a long and painful process. And now, the deadline that was initially imposed for the break will be arriving at the end of this month. Does this mean there is an end in sight? Or will Brexit continue to drag on? Here, Election Central takes a closer look at this complicated story.

Deal . . .

The original deadline for Brexit was set for March 29 at 11:00 pm UK time. But last Thursday, the British Parliament approved a plan to ask the EU for an extension until June 30. That’s because no one can seem to reach an agreement on the details of the separation. The debate has centered around what trade agreements will look like, what to do about British citizens living in EU nations (and vice versa), and whether to keep international borders open or close them. This week, British Prime Minister Theresa May is bringing the newest draft of her Brexit plan before Parliament. Two earlier drafts of this plan have already failed, which has cost May valuable political power, even within her own party. If her plan passes this time, she will still need an extension from the EU in order to iron out details of the separation. If it fails, however, she will need a much longer extension in order to re-write the plan yet again.

May is hoping for a short delay rather than a long one. A long delay could eventually lead to another election, which could potentially push May and her party from power. Of course, there is no guarantee that the EU will grant any extension at all. In order for the extension plan to pass, all 27 EU member nations would need to vote in favor of it.

. . . Or No Deal?

Many political experts are doubtful that an extension of any length will solve the problem of Brexit. After all, in the past three years, little has been accomplished except for a great deal of political infighting. Still, representatives of several EU member nations have indicated that they will be willing to give Britain additional time to sort things out if necessary.

But what if the EU rejects the British plea for an extension, and Britain is forced to leave the EU at the end of March with no deal in hand? This, according to many political and economic observers, is the worst possible scenario, as many believe that the resulting uncertainty would significantly weaken the British economy and lead to widespread hardship.

There is also the possibility of another referendum, meaning a re-vote by the British people on the Brexit issue. European courts have ruled that Britain can decide to pull out of Brexit and remain in the EU at any point up until the deadline. It could be that three years of arguing and uncertainty have been enough to change British minds about Brexit altogether, or maybe not. In the meantime, the world continues to watch closely as the March 29 deadline grows steadily closer.

What Do You Think? In your opinion, should the British government be given extra time to solidify a Brexit plan? Or should the EU hold them to their original deadline? Explain.