Martin McGowan-Scanlon laments MP Sarah Wollaston’s ‘absolute zero grasp of business’, Letters, May 11.
I would add that she also fails to appreciate that businesses hate uncertainty. Her actions are but adding to that uncertainty and could contribute to bringing the Government down.
In the run up to general elections, the Government of the day prepares for various outcomes.
However, David Cameron was so confident that the electorate would vote to remain in the EU in the referendum that he made no plans at all.
No wonder the man, who claimed ‘I’m not a quitter’, did exactly that on the morning after the democratic vote went against him.
Our MPs work for us and it is Sarah’s duty to her constituents to uphold the mandate given. Due to Theresa May’s weak leadership we have had 23 months of uncertainty and Sarah’s actions have contributed to that. It is likely that a general election will be called this autumn.
Sarah points out that it is an MP’s duty to scrutinise legislation but it seems that a blind eye has been turned to scrutiny up until now by many members of both Houses of Parliament.
Here are some examples. Does Sarah realise that the EU directive abolishing the use of energy-heavy tungsten bulbs and modern LED fixtures from September 1, 2020, could result in theatres closing down in the UK if we are still in a transition period? This is but one of many more regulations coming down the track.
Does she also realise that being trapped in the 21-month transition after the official date of leaving the EU on March 29, 2019, will mean that the EU will be free to enforce detrimental legislation to cull what is left of our fishing fleets?
Danish trawlers will be able to pulse beam trawl right up to our beaches, causing environmental devastation in the 12-mile limit which currently gives some protection to our inshore and shell-fishermen and nursery grounds.
Our fishing industry is on the brink of destruction due to EU policies.
Our MP should be doing her utmost to ensure the return of that industry estimated to be worth £6-8bn and the opening up of thousands of job opportunities in coastal communities.
Here is another uncomfortable fact – the members of the House of Lords and of the House of Commons who are trying to wreck the Brexit negotiations are trying to mislead us.
Under World Trade Organisation rules, we can maintain the current zero tariffs with the EU for up to 10 years while we negotiate a free-trade agreement.
The EU is a 1970s solution to 1950s problems. It is a monolithic, one-size fits all, outdated concept dependent on endless money printing for its existence.
In America, they are coming to terms with a president who draws on his successful business background, speaks out, acts in a decisive manner and delivers his election campaign promises. It is patently obvious that our MP and PM are not blessed with similar attributes.
Ceri Jayes
Chairman, Totnes branch, Ukip