Right, let's try again:


There was an interesting article by Jonathan Freedland recently that is worth mulling over. One of the points he makes is that despite all the things that Remainers regard as disastrous, the support for Brexit has barely wavered.   Within two weeks it is likely that the UK will have to agree to pay much more to the EU just to enable talks to start on trade, which crosses one of the 'red lines' for many Leavers, yet in all probability the support will continue unchanged; if anything the resolve of Leavers will be hardened. There is something in need explaining here. Gordon Brown, like Steve, suggests that by the middle of next year it will be obvious to all that none of the four objective of the Leave campaign will be met. But, if Freedman is right, and I think he is, the support for leaving will be as strong as ever.

To see this, let me quote on of ake's post in full, because I think it indicates how many Brexiteers think:


Subject: RE: BS: Post Brexit life in the UK
From: akenaton - PM
Date: 09 Nov 17 - 12:29 PM

Latest appointment , Penny Mordant....a fine upstanding Brexiteer and a woman into the bargain!


What is notable about that is there is not a hint of her ability to do the job, her experience, or her attitude to the department. No, the key factor of interest is that she is a Brexiteer. I am not picking on ake here: that does seem to be the normal response. And, to be fair, I think if someone supporting Remain had got the position, a lot of that side would see that as the key quality as well, rather than her ability. Certainly all of the media reporting would be "how does this change the balance?"

So I think Steve and Gordon Brown are right that it will be obvious by mid next year that none of the leave objectives have been met. But I disagree that this will lead people to change their minds. Instead they will be more angry at the EU and more determined than ever to separate, whatever the cost.