Brexit has been five years in the making since the UK officially left the EU in 2020. The county of Suffolk, where nearly 60% of voters backed leaving the EU, is still grappling with the consequences.
Supporters like James Spencer, a local IT expert, say regaining sovereignty is key to moving forward. “We’ve got a good measure of sovereignty back and I want us to build on that,” he states.
However, not everyone shares this view. Suffolk businessman Stephen Britt believes the UK did not achieve its goals with Brexit. “I don’t think we got anywhere near what we wanted. We have to be on guard for creep back into the EU.”
The impact of Brexit on local businesses is also a concern. Portuguese business owner Jose Camarinha, who runs two shops in Ipswich, says it has become more difficult due to changes in immigration policies.
Campaigner June Mummery, a former Brexit party MEP, emphasizes that the deal lacks full control over borders and laws. “What we have is BRINO – Brexit In Name Only,” she claims.
For Liberal Democrat local chair Julia Ewart, the years since Brexit have been a source of regret. “We must be honest, Brexit caused political chaos… on the world stage, we’re alone.”
As Suffolk looks to move forward, it’s clear that opinions on Brexit vary widely among residents.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwypn5d4v17o