EUROPE: Concern for prospects

I feel that I have lost my tolerant, open country and my desire to be an active and engaging part of the family of Europe and the world beyond.

Yes, ‘the people have spoken’, but I fear, given the comments I have heard, that many have been misled and voted with an anger addressed in the wrong direction.

It is not the EU or immigration that has caused the problems that many are suffering in this country; it is austerity and the neo-liberal policies of successive UK governments since the 1980s.

I fear the consequences when the Leavers realise that there will be no positive change in their circumstances, rather it is likely that the situation will become worse.

What happens next?

What happens when the £350million a week is not transferred to the NHS, when immigration is not reduced, and the other ‘promises’ are denied or backtracked?

I am depressed and angry because I believe the whole campaign has been fought on half-truths and fear.

I believe that there was, and is, no leadership, no positive campaigning or any unifying policies.

There is clearly no plan for what to do following the Leave vote.

I fear that we now face a period of narrow political in-fighting, with a total lack of vision.

I am ashamed at the xenophobia that has been released and the racist language that is increasingly being displayed.

I am also angry at the naivety of those Leave voters who now regret their actions.

I hope they will make those regrets known to the politicians and sign petitions calling for a further referendum.

My feelings are not sour grapes, rather they are concern for my country’s prospects and standing in the world, our attitudes to one another and my children and grandchildren’s future.

I can accept a majority vote when there has been reasoned argument, but not one based on fear, misinformation, and now regret.

I, and I hope the other 48 per cent who voted Remain, will continue to argue for a more open, tolerant and internationalist society, working together and in harmony with other nations.

I know my family, friends and neighbours share those hopes.

That is the future, but I fear not now in my lifetime.

Geoff Hoskin,

Whittingham