On 23 June 2016, Britons voted to leave the European Union. A decade later, the Guardian's economics editor, Heather Stewart, looks back at the Brexit campaign promises. From immigration, a bus promising £350m a week for the NHS, to bendy bananas, the 'most consequential decision in modern history' had mixed results.
The £350m NHS Promise
One of the most iconic promises was the claim on the side of a campaign bus that leaving the EU would free up £350m a week for the National Health Service. According to Stewart, this pledge was not fulfilled. The UK's contribution to the EU budget was never directly transferred to the NHS, and the promised funding boost did not materialise.
Immigration Control
Another key promise was taking back control of borders and reducing immigration. Post-Brexit, the UK implemented a points-based immigration system. However, net migration figures have remained high, partly due to non-EU immigration. The promise of significantly lower numbers has not been achieved.
Bendy Bananas and Trade Deals
The campaign also mocked EU regulations on curved bananas, suggesting Brexit would free the UK from such bureaucracy. In reality, the UK has largely retained EU standards. On trade, the UK has signed new deals, but the economic impact has been mixed, with some sectors facing new barriers with the EU.
Political Instability
Europe’s media have looked on in bemusement at the post-Brexit 'revolving door' of UK prime ministers. Since the referendum, the UK has had five prime ministers, reflecting deep political divisions. The promise of a stable, sovereign nation has been challenged by ongoing political turmoil.
Economic Consequences
According to Stewart, the economic effects have been significant. The UK's GDP growth has lagged behind other advanced economies, and trade with the EU has become more cumbersome. The promise of economic prosperity has not fully materialised, with businesses facing increased costs and regulatory hurdles.
