Former prime minister John Major launches unexpected Brexit salvo
The ex-PM suggests people are not being given a true picture of life outside the EU and that Theresa May is overselling Brexit.
Tuesday 28 February 2017 06:48, UK
During his fight with Maastricht rebels, John Major was once asked by ITN's political editor Michael Brunson why he didn't sack some of his cabinet.
Not realising the recording feed was still up he famously called them b**.
"We don't want another three b** out there. What's Lyndon Johnson's maxim?' (The maxim is: 'It's probably better to have him inside the tent pissing out, than outside pissing in.')
Mr Major now finds himself outside the tent. And what should he do?
Today he There's really no doubt who he is attributing this problem to. It's clear he believes Theresa May is overselling Brexit.
In his speech he said that potential obstacles such as leaving the single market are "brushed aside as of no consequence," whilst opportunities, such as free trade deals "are inflated beyond any reasonable expectation of delivery".
Mr Major's feelings about Europe come as no surprise - but his carefully worded criticism of Number 10 was an unexpected salvo from the former Conservative PM.
He is calling, not for another referendum, but a bit of honesty about the dangers ahead.
Mr Major's stated concern is that there could be a backlash down the line if people aren't given a reality check now, but clearly this is also another way for him to make his point that Brexit was a mistake.
The former PM doesn't foresee another referendum, but he does want to put pressure on the Government to maintain trading links with the EU.
His speech was an essay in why it will be difficult to forge new trading partnerships with China, India and the US.
"America's size and power means we are, by far, the junior partner," Mr Major said.
"Mostly we follow - only rarely can we lead. Despite the romantic view of committed Atlanticists, the 'special relationship' is not a union of equals."
His point is also that Europe was, in part, created to give the UK and others greater bargaining power in deals with the superpowers as the world becomes more globalised.
In his view it's not "unpatriotic" to point out that on our own we may lose some leverage.
Mr Major said: "I have watched with growing concern as the British people have been led to expect a future that seems to be unreal and over-optimistic."
He also insists that people shouldn't shoot the messenger.
Mr Major said: "It's not 'arrogant' or 'brazen' or 'elitist', or remotely 'delusional' to express concern about our future after Brexit. Nor, by doing so, is this group undermining the will of the people: they are the people."
On the face of it the Conservatives have been united by Brexit - even though most MP's including the Prime Minister, campaigned to remain.
Post-referendum, those opposed to efforts to maintain aspects of membership are in a small minority.
Mr Major is a reminder of the Conservative party's flipside - he doesn't want them to forget it.