Britain needs a simple solution, not 'reform': rejoin the EU

There's talk about revamping the UK government's internal workings, yet the real issue lies in policy, not processes.

Recalling an earlier trip to Moscow with Dr. Johnson and Shirley Williams, our aim was to share the virtues of Western democracy with post-Soviet Russian politicians. However, what followed the Soviet Union's collapse was the emergence of oligarchs who, in Putin's Russia, morphed into dictatorial rule.

The democratic ideals we championed then were later jeopardized under Boris Johnson's leadership, a period currently being recapped in a TV series highlighting, among other things, his controversial suspension of parliament to push through Brexit.

Now, figures like ex-Prime Ministers John Major and Gordon Brown through the Institute for Government push for significant changes to the British government's structure. The Labour party is keenly following these developments.

Despite respecting the reform advocates, history suggests altering government frameworks rarely addresses the core problems. Lord Butler, ex-civil service head, even suggested the pre-Johnson system operated effectively.

True reform isn't just tweaking governance structures but addressing flawed policies that have weakened the economy, such as the harmful impact of austerity combined with the detrimental effects of Brexit.

Exiting the EU and its single market previously rejuvenated the ailing British economy, but recent analyses indicate the loss of EU trade privileges has been catastrophic, with global trade deals failing to compensate.

Labour's Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves must consider embracing Gordon Brown's notion of an economic "war footing," likely necessitating a return to the EU's customs union and single market.

Amid speculation, Boris Johnson may seek to appeal to "red wall" voters by touting Brexit benefits, despite evidence to the contrary, like a Daily Express headline claiming Brexit a success.

In conclusion, the UK's priority should not focus on governmental restructuring, but rather on re-evaluating Brexit and its repercussions on national prosperity.