A Plymouth MP recently described Brexit as an 'almost unmitigated disaster' during a debate at Westminster Hall. This statement followed an e-petition calling for the UK to rejoin the European Union. Despite his criticism, Fred Thomas, the Labour MP for Plymouth Moor View, clarified that the Labour Party does not plan to push for rejoining the EU. The debate sparked strong reactions from both MPs and the public.

Rosie Duffield, the Independent MP for Canterbury, emphasized the importance of the petition, which garnered 134,370 signatures. She contrasted this with the over three million signatures on a petition demanding another general election. Duffield, who had previously been part of Labour, recounted how current Labour cabinet members had opposed Brexit during its legislative process, citing concerns over national security and the economy.

Fred Thomas responded by defending the Labour Party’s position, challenging his colleagues to honor their manifesto commitments. He remarked, 'The Labour Party manifesto said that we will not go back into the EU, the customs union or the single market.' His remarks sparked further debate among MPs and readers alike.

The discussion around Brexit continues to divide opinions. Some readers voiced their dissatisfaction, with one commenting, 'Cutting off your closest partners and allies to 'get back control' was never a good idea.' Others defended Brexit, citing economic reasons and criticizing the government's handling of post-Brexit issues. Some argued that the UK’s struggles were more about government mismanagement than the actual Brexit process.

One reader, Madcaplaughsagain, stated, 'I voted to leave the EU, and would do the same again. Many pro-EU people do not understand that it is not all about the economics. The reason the UK is suffering is all to do with incompetent government and the money wasted on Covid, and little to do with Brexit.' On the other hand, JPFD pointed out the economic consequences of Brexit, stating that trade has dropped, small businesses have downsized or collapsed, and the UK is losing GDP due to Brexit-related issues.

Despite differing views, the conversation about Brexit’s long-term effects remains ongoing. To join the debate, readers are encouraged to participate in the comments section or on the e-petition platform.