'BREXIT IS A COLOSSAL MISTAKE'

→ This 4-minute video has already been viewed over a million times
‘𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗫𝗜𝗧 𝗜𝗦 𝗔 𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗢𝗦𝗦𝗔𝗟 𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘’ - 𝗕𝗬 𝗦𝗜𝗥 𝗝𝗢𝗛𝗡 𝗠𝗔𝗝𝗢𝗥, 𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗠𝗘𝗥 𝗣𝗠
Former Conservatives Prime Minister, Sir John Major, did not mince his words about #Brexit at a Westminster committee meeting this time last year.
He said that leaving the European Union has been “a colossal mistake.”
We should be back in the #EU, he said, to keep Britain safe.
“There are three great power blocs in the world today,” he said. “The United Kingdom is not one of them.”
He spelt it out. “There’s America, there’s China, and there’s the European Union.”
Sir John continued, “Europe is going to face immense competition from both America and China.
“It may face military and security problems with China.
“Is Europe better able to represent its people with the United Kingdom inside the European Union, making it stronger, or outside making it weaker?”
The former Prime Minister’s answer was clear. “I think not just us, but the whole of Europe is stronger with Britain in it.
“And when I look at the interests of my children and grandchildren, I think their future is brighter if they are part of a really big bloc who could work with us if we were in difficulty.”
He added:
“In a challenging economic world, and potentially difficult political world, how much safer we are in a large bloc than alone, and how much more secure we would be, in times of difficulty, with friends we can hug closely rather than people who may be less willing to come to the aid in difficulties of a country that stands entirely alone.”
Sir John concluded:
“Those are matters that are important for this generation and future generations, and I don’t think they were given the weight they deserved in the referendum.”
▪ This video has already been viewed over a million times. It deserves even more viewers! Please do your bit by helping to share this video to a wider audience. Thank you.
▪ © Report and video production by ‪@JonDanzig‬

[@JonDanzig]

→ This 4-minute video has already been viewed over a million times ‘𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗫𝗜𝗧 𝗜𝗦 𝗔 𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗢𝗦𝗦𝗔𝗟 𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘’ - 𝗕𝗬 𝗦𝗜𝗥 𝗝𝗢𝗛𝗡 𝗠𝗔𝗝𝗢𝗥, 𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗠𝗘𝗥 𝗣𝗠 Former Conservatives Prime Minister, Sir John Major, did not mince his words about #Brexit at a Westminster committee meeting this time last year. He said that leaving the European Union has been “a colossal mistake.” We should be back in the #EU, he said, to keep Britain safe. “There are three great power blocs in the world today,” he said. “The United Kingdom is not one of them.” He spelt it out. “There’s America, there’s China, and there’s the European Union.” Sir John continued, “Europe is going to face immense competition from both America and China. “It may face military and security problems with China. “Is Europe better able to represent its people with the United Kingdom inside the European Union, making it stronger, or outside making it weaker?” The former Prime Minister’s answer was clear. “I think not just us, but the whole of Europe is stronger with Britain in it. “And when I look at the interests of my children and grandchildren, I think their future is brighter if they are part of a really big bloc who could work with us if we were in difficulty.” He added: “In a challenging economic world, and potentially difficult political world, how much safer we are in a large bloc than alone, and how much more secure we would be, in times of difficulty, with friends we can hug closely rather than people who may be less willing to come to the aid in difficulties of a country that stands entirely alone.” Sir John concluded: “Those are matters that are important for this generation and future generations, and I don’t think they were given the weight they deserved in the referendum.” ▪ This video has already been viewed over a million times. It deserves even more viewers! Please do your bit by helping to share this video to a wider audience. Thank you.

[@blechtic]

Numbers say a little over a thousand, though.

[@fetlocks3]

Thats only his opinion, lots of people disagree with his opinion just another politician.

[@peterebel7899]

Watching YT is not relevant. Voting in a referendum is relevant.

[@peterebel7899]

@@fetlocks3 Yes, Britain holds piles of idiots.

[@rabnori4836]

Opinions have changed, for good and bad reasons and the outcome. Brexiters in large numbers , have regrets as Brexit plays out . For the worse .

[@PaulWelsh]

Ive never voted Tory, but I do have a lot of respect for John Major. Just compare this level of politics to todays standards.

[@peterebel7899]

The ultra rich decided to have more efficient politicians like i.e. Truss.

[@themajesticmagnificent386]

Today’s politicians are gutter dwelling compered to what we once had representing us..Of course not without faults.But todays politicians are just vicious,uncaring and very corrupt clowns.They just look out for their class and friends..The rest of us are viewed as scum they order around..

[@Aviopic]

Don't think there's any standard left 🤔

[@gazza595]

John Major simply is not a tory when compared to the current crop. The present incarnation of the tory party is so far to the right that they're not all that far from the BNP of John Major's time. They are fully occupied now by the Brexit party as was.

[@sarfaraz.hosseini]

@@peterebel7899Ultra rich, financial services, people thought Liz Truss’ policies were bonkers. She called them “Socialists” when she crashed the economy.

[@fabiosuttle5926]

He sounds like a political Titan compared to the current lot

[@BongoAboutBedfords]

He’s the ‘TIT’ ,in ‘Titan ‘. This ‘Current lot’ are all cut from the same Cloth !!.

[@catinthehat906]

Major reached the conclusion about Maastricht in the early 1990's when at that time for a pragmatic politician it may have been the 'right' decision. What he failed to anticipate was a decade later multiple accessions would mean mass immigration from Europe but from any populations from developing countries who had acquired European residency. That's why two thirds of the Dutch Somali population up sticks and moved to the UK or why we have tens of thousands of East Timorese from Portugal clustered around Oxford.

[@bardsamok9221]

Truss is still rewarding the leaders of 'leave' with honours, as if pulling society back 30 years and tripling inward immigration is a good thing. Those self promoting power games are the destruction of the future (and present) of those living in the UK without many hundreds of thousands in the bank to fall back on..

[@gunther3527]

@@catinthehat906and whats the problem? Inselaffen invaded the world in the past and what?

[@philipkudrna5643]

What a contrast this is in comparison to current UK politicians. This man had intelligence, eloquence, character and charisma. What has Britain become!

[@gazza595]

He was also *not* part of the Old Eatonian clique that are now in power and I think that is a crucial difference with Major. I'm of his generation and although I didn't vote for him, it's possible to respect an ordinary person that arrived as PM through work and education rather than someone like Johnson or Sunak who effectively bought their way in.

[@thegrandmuftiofwakanda]

I'll tell you another thing he had...Edwina Curry. How's that for "intelligence, eloquence, character and charisma".

[@peteroneill2991]

@@thegrandmuftiofwakanda Who gives a fuck if he had curry and chips.

[@seamus7054]

Woke and controlled by the uber-rich.

[@jmo8934]

The fact that he had a Curry stain down his front is irrelevant. The likes of Major are leagues above any of the Tory goons of the last number of years. It’s incredible how that party has completely gone nuts.

[@thomasley4006]

Decades ago I used to scoff at John Major. Used to think he was a bland, insignificant man. How very wrong I was.

[@TheNefastor]

Politics is one job where "bland" is the best choice. As with brain surgeons, you do not want a loud excited politician. Ask Germany about it.

[@user-it7lf7kk8m]

No you were right first time

[@moodyb2]

Pathetic- finally says something that chimes with your personal views, and now suddenly, you like him. Do you see how shallow that is? 🤦

[@philjames6206]

He was a lothario, ask Edwina. Sill, JM is on point regarding the stupidity of Brexit.

[@gerrytrimble8430]

sometimes pragmatism is boring in politics but it achieves much more than populism ever will.

[@markpearson8721]

I can't say I was a John Major fan when he was PM, but he's head, shoulders, waist, and ankles above anyone the Tories have elevated to that position since. He's also absolutely right about us being in the EU.

[@ganrimmonim]

So much this. It shows what has happened to the Tories since.

[@JB-fg9jo]

I agree with you I never really took a great deal of notice 4:14 about politics when John Major was pm. How many 30yr olds do. But I appreciate him now.

[@georgethepatriot2785]

Never mentions the big lie does he ? File FCO 301048 telling the truth hidden from the people under the 30 year rule. The People were conned in the first place. As for the loss of huge land subsidy money lost by Remainer Heseltine ?

[@keithfallon-norris9570]

Bravo 👍

[@onlyme8117]

. What a man major was He even made sure he sat at the Tap end while bathing with Edwina.

[@hughdoyle7059]

Sometimes we do not know what we had until we lose it. We lost old fashioned conservatives like Major and got Boris, Truss, Sunak, Mogg, Anderson et al instead. Our country has lost a lot more than GDP as time will tell.

[@ai-d2121]

Worse: The UK lost what it never had and gained what it never wished for.

[@unggrabb]

The riff raff took over

[@johnkeane533]

Don’t forget Heseltine a straight individual 👍

[@willieckaslike]

Could the same be said about BLAIR leading the Labour Party away from it's principles, and creating instead, "a poor man's Tory Party" !

[@hughdoyle7059]

agreed and others as well@@johnkeane533

[@nni9310]

John Major spoke calmly, clearly setting out the issues and his position, and in my view, convincingly. Not many UK politicians speak like him.

[@Cornz38]

Ah yes, John "I like peas" adulterer Major. He's put more people to sleep than the manager of Dignitas.

[@theotherandrew5540]

Alas his party is now dominated by liars, cheats and crooks.

[@TheHoveHeretic]

​@@theotherandrew5540point of order: Profumo and Marples were long before Major's time

[@barry5111]

Of course he spoke calmly he wasn't interrupted.

[@theotherandrew5540]

@@SJG-nr8uj Carefully constructed fiscal, political, military union across the EU would be an excellent way of curbing the tax dodging multinationals, supporting stability within the EU, ensuring our defence while reigning in the stupidity of the UK’s absurd posturing. Yes, the eastward expansion is a folly, promoted by NATO. All this would allow us to get free of US domination.

[@marcocosto6748]

I wish I could give this two thumbs up.

[@Iazzaboyce]

That's the problem with you guys.

[@peterebel7899]

Try it to join Brits voting!

[@rabnori4836]

👍👍 two thumbs up, far more reasonable than the two finger brigade. 😂

[@philipprudhomme6967]

138 thumbs up at the time of reply.

[@petelove9731]

I’ve never been a conservative but my goodness how refreshing to listen to this than listening to Lee Anderson, Jonathan Gullis etc

[@lellyparker]

It's shocking the state of the government today. Utterly shocking. We're being run by immature amateurs who don't have a single clue about anything.

[@51bikerboy]

What about Boris Johnson and Jocob Rees Mog and Nigel Garage and Ann Widdecombe and more of these simple minds who think they know it all, butt because of there upbringing they don't know anything about ordinary peoples lives.

[@NoMementoMori]

We have replaced "boring" bureaucrats with "exciting" ideologs and this is what we get. People don't want someone competent anymore, they just want someone who riles up the perceived opposition.

[@lellyparker]

@@SJG-nr8uj *"EU fiscal union"* - Makes all our currency more stable and valuable. There is a reason why the dollar is #1 currency in the world - because the US is such a big rich place. For the same reason the Euro is the #2 currency in the world.

[@lellyparker]

@@SJG-nr8uj *"EU economic union, EU political union"* - the original stated aims of the EEC when the UK joined. It makes zero sense for 27 countries to each make 27 sets of incompatible yet very similar laws governing product quality, safety when one single set of standards laws that everyone creates jointly and agrees on removes ALL red tape involved in trading between member nations. This is a massive boost to small/medium business and makes life cheaper for absolutely everybody.

[@thomaschapman8312]

I was never a supporter of the Grey Man but he is completely correct on this issue !

[@colmocallaghan6626]

This always amazes me, the ''Grey Man'' it's a shame people don't see further than the cover image, everybody loves Boris the clown, here in Ireland the ''Grey Man'' has a lot of respect Sir John Major was a breath of fresh from the terrible Thatcher years, with Irish Prime Minister the late Albert Reynolds, John Major started the Peace Process in Northern Ireland and got very little credit for that, years after peace was achieved, Reynolds and Major became personal friends, when Albert Reynolds passed away in 2014, Sir John Major travelled Ireland and attended Reynolds funeral to the surprise of the media, when asked why did he come, he replied ''there is no other place I would want to be, than to be here with a passing friend'' Sir John Major is one of life's gentlemen, as for Boris the clown, well ''empty vessels make the most noise''

[@peteroneill2991]

@@colmocallaghan6626 I disliked his policies immensely, but I have a great deal of respect for him with regard to the peace process, I still recall a tomato faced David Trimble at a press conference after a meeting with Major and threatening to bring down his shabby government (his words not mine).

[@JorgeBachtold]

In short: Unity is strength; division brings weakness.

[@ThomasVWorm]

​@@SJG-nr8ujbut only because the Europeans are idiots who do prefer to sink into wars with each other rather than to cooperate. Most people do not understand, that the past 80 years were the best years Europe did ever have and how blessed we were and still are. The EU is one of the reason because it stands for the will to cooperate. Giving this all up for rubbish is a clear sign of madness.

[@Harry-tb8yo]

@@SJG-nr8uj Only in your wet Russian dreams. Foxtrot Oscar

[@rolandhawken6628]

That only works with people of the same ilk,

[@lorenzogumier7646]

​@SJG-nr8uj that's why we need to work to make EU better, not to destroy it along with all its tiny states:)

[@Harry-tb8yo]

@@SJG-nr8uj Nothing of what you write makes any sense. What next? Will you try to convince people that 1+1=3?

[@russmarkham2197]

John Major. The last Tory leader I have any respect for.

[@geoffreynolds8835]

Edwina will agree with you.

[@elspethgibson7625]

Major is a realist, who appreciate geopolitics

[@lochnessmunster1189]

Unfortunately Major doesn't understand that the EU doesn't enable free trade; it restricts it.

[@4tnine]

If EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) felt it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major talks about already exist. With respect to the Maastricht Treaty that Major signed the UK up to, that treaty includes an agreement to create a common EU foreign policy. What, I ask you, do you think the EU’s common foreign policy would have been on Gibraltar, Northern Ireland and the Falklands?

[@lochnessmunster1189]

@@4tnine Exactly.

[@user-pr7ev3ip9l]

Like Brexit, only when it's gone you see what you have lost. I'm irish, the statesmanship and character from John Major is something special to see. He's thoughtful and considered through every syllable whitout wasting one word. If I was British I'd never vote conservative but what a fantastic diplomat Sir John Major is and why isn't the U.K. availing of his skills now .. Britain got a lot wrong throughout history, but, Britain was also a leader in so many ways. Brunel, the stock exchange, electricity to name a few but look at where Britain has fallen too. You truly have some of the best diplomats in the world and the world recognises them as such like Sir John Major but look at bunch you have in power. It was a pleasure to here him talk.

[@3replybiz]

I saw it would be disaster in 2016. All I had to do was look at facts that were available to all at the time. Brunel was half French anyway. Benjamin Franklin discovered electricity, one might even say Voltaire, not a British discovery.

[@graemeedgar7654]

We sold up and moved to the rep of Ireland under the CTA so that myself and my family could be part of the EU again, the UK was lied to.

[@roderickbrown97]

As the speaker at the end said. " very wise words ' At the end of WW2 Churchill said the same. " better friends near than friends afar".

[@villhelm]

But they aren’t friends. They are self serving bureaucrats who have zero accountability. We haven’t even had Brexit delivered properly due to the amount of subversion that the traitors in government and civil service have done. The EU was supposed to be a free trade block, not a single government.

[@villhelm]

Have you seen what’s happening in Europe right now? It’s economy is utterly fucked, the farmers are protesting all over it; the whole Of Europe is on fire. Many nations are going to leave the EU. In 10 years it won’t exist as a political entity.

[@peterebel7899]

So, let's move to the Pacific Region!

[@LudwigVaanArthans]

We in the EU will prefer De Gaulle's words from now on, so you can keep Churchill

[@catinthehat906]

In 1953 Churchill made his views on political union very clear. "Where do we stand? We are not members of the European Defence Community, nor do we intend to be merged in a Federal European system". He would have been happy to join a common trading market as he stated in 1957, but he was very clear he did not see Britain being part of a federal superstate, something that only became overt, well after his death.

[@vamboroolz1612]

Clear, concise and accurate. Most of all, though, honest. Today, from a politician, that is rare.

[@4tnine]

Referring to John Major’s views, you say that he was “… accurate.” No he wasn’t. If EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) felt it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU, already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@grahamf695]

His arguments are simple and obvious - and extremely well delivered. What a shame that the people who voted could not understand these points.

[@snubbedpeer]

Sir John spoke about what's best for the country, not what's best for the grifters that spoke so warmly about Brexit and the sunlit uplands it would bring (for them). Politicians like that should be listened to.

[@4tnine]

So John Major tells us that the UK should be a member of a “power bloc,” a “really big power bloc” because it (the EU) will bring greater security to the UK. UTTER NONSENSE! If EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) felt it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major talks about already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO. With respect to the Maastricht Treaty that Major signed the UK up to, that treaty includes an agreement to create a common EU foreign policy. What, I ask you, do you think the EU’s common foreign policy would have been on Gibraltar, Northern Ireland and the Falklands?

[@1cpascal]

John Major seems to be intelligent and respectable, and somebody who could be taken seriously as a statesman, whether or not you agree with his politics. He's right about the EU, though. The Tory politicians of today are awful. They're snarky and rude, and laugh in the faces of people who are down on their luck. Not to mention their tendency to complain about foreigners while so often being of foreign descent themselves.

[@camelotvanerven9667]

Such an eloquent and clear speech, a delight to listen to, instead of the nonsense of Brexiteers.

[@Angeliter]

@@SJG-nr8uj What do you know? Not much, it seems.

[@lochnessmunster1189]

What does the EU actually do, that genuine free trade in Europe cannot do?

[@rolandhawken6628]

Do you speak any European languages ?

[@camelotvanerven9667]

@@rolandhawken6628 yes I do.

[@LudwigVaanArthans]

​@@lochnessmunster1189it ensures regulated but constant trade. You can keep free trade all to yourselves

[@basdebruin2355]

It isn’t a mistake… It is a crime. Deliberate lies are used to get out. Here, in the Netherlands, we say: “If you burn your bottom, you have to sit on your well deserved blisters”.

[@lochnessmunster1189]

What does the EU do, that real free trade in Europe cannot do? If it's a "crime", which crime has been committed?

[@Andy-rc9db]

@@lochnessmunster1189Fool.

[@catinthehat906]

Didn't you guys just vote in large numbers for Geert Wilders?

[@basdebruin2355]

Anything based on lies isn’t a mistake. I am not a Wilders fan. We really don’t go out of the EU. By the way, there is not a single bus driving around in the Netherlands with the ‘brilliant promise’ that our health system get millions and millions per day/week or whatever more by leaving the EU. I’ve been living and working in the UK for 3,5 years. Long enough to realize that the general idea that ‘there is the UK, and there is Europe’ was still there. Nose up about the Germans and the French. Now, years later, it is quite obvious that you you better have a ‘less good time’ together than suffering alone. About Wilders, yes we have our bad moments as well.

[@catinthehat906]

@@basdebruin2355 The EU is about to decimate your farming industry and compulsorily close livestock farms. What about the additional 34 Billion Euro net extra you have to donate to the Commissions Covid fund? Two thirds of the Dutch Somali community (whose male unemployment rate is 85%) moved to the UK- because of free movement. Believe me there were lots of reasons the UK made the decision it did.

[@i-am-vonnegut]

An ex PM, politician and statesman. I never voted for him. But his kind is sorely missed. Most of today's current bunch, mainly on the Con party side, are amateurs with very little self respect and just gobshites in comparison.

[@i-am-vonnegut]

@@SJG-nr8uj OK bot seems you've asked. Most of the above have been a success in elevating the standards of ex communist countries. Brexshit has shown exactly why fiscal and economic as well as environmental unity brings its own rewards. Being on the outside does not! . Never heard of a European army.. That's why we have NATO. And as for reckless expansion.... Its a fucking voluntary organisation. Countries ask it to join not the other way round. The tsunami of African migrants? If the Western industrialised nations werent helping drown or turn to dust bowls these parts of the world. And helped stabilise rather than bomb and pollute . Maybe their occupants wouldn't feel the need to move towards Europe..... And America and Australia and Canada etc etc. But Bot, in a nutshell. The EU is a success, a rare example of cillaboration in today's world. And so far, has batted the constant tripe and lies about it away with ease. It's no dark entity, that's just shouty bs from the easily fooled.

[@ganrimmonim]

When 18 year old Adam was so pleased to see the Back of Major in 1997, if you'd told hay, in 27 years time you'll see him in front of a select committee and think. Oh for this man back in number 10.

[@user-jm9rh6py5i]

Well said! I have never understand the sovereignty point. Long time gone are times when the developed countries had full sovereignty. And it is understandable, they gave up part of the sovereignty to create a cooperative unions and parties, which allowed them to achieve more, than each country alone. (In the end, The United Kingdom wasn’t created for any different reason) Later on, when the trade increased and the bureaucracy and the paperwork started to be too complicated, the agreement on the quality and control was a way to resolve it. In the last 47 years, before the Brexit, the UK was built with the shared resources of the rest of the EU, which made trade simple, effective, safe and indisputably cheaper. There is no way to have all the things UK had before, for the same price as before. It is a reason, why there is such increase in the numbers of people calling for rejoining (67%), which is still going up. It is a reason why most of the people see the Brexit as a complete failure.

[@markmoran916]

The whole sovereignty thing was used on the terminally stupid and hard of thinking flag waving racists

[@peteratkin3788]

A very sincere and well-thought-out analysis, mind if I nick that, and in return here's my two pennies worth. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝘅𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝘀: Never has a democracy and its people voted to remove their rights, freedoms, privileges, and status as a citizen of their own country along with erecting trade barriers with its closest neighbours/allies while at the same time reducing world standing with such enthusiasm.

[@user-jm9rh6py5i]

@@peteratkin3788 Thanks! Not at all, use the text as you wish.

[@villhelm]

It wasn’t built on the shared resources, it had its manufacturing base hollowed out, our farming was completely undermined by subsidies given to European farmers and our fishing communities were absolutely decimated by the same thing. The EU was an absolutely terrible thing that turned British into a nation of service industries that doesn’t produce anything useful on any kind of scale. It also led to mass immigration, which has caused untold destruction to our infrastructure, bank balance and culture. All in all, a complete shitshow.

[@Hickalum]

EU cities I’ve been to recently; Paris, Dublin, Munich and Rome have become dismal, grubby, refugee camps with huddles of tall, dusky young men on every street corner. Gone are the joyous crowds and traditional music coming from every other doorway. After dark the pubs and clubs are half empty as visitors take refuge in their hotels not daring to venture out. That’s not to say the UK isn’t going the same way, but the EU is already lost.

[@stubalmer3884]

Speaking a lot of common sense

[@andyknowles772]

No place for him in the modern conservative party, then.

[@stubalmer3884]

@@SJG-nr8uj is it cold in st Petersburg tonight, make sure you wrap up

[@aleph8888]

Germany spent years making itself dependent on Russian gas. How that work out? 😝

[@4tnine]

"Speaking a lot of common sense,” you tell us. No, he isn’t. If EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) felt it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major talks about already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@leiflindqvist9095]

Excellent speech. I feel sad and sorry for Britain's decision to leave the Union. None of my friends in the UK have said anything positive about the result. We miss you. 🇸🇪🤝🇬🇧

[@lochnessmunster1189]

The EU is a pointless layer of bureaucracy which seems to "fix" problems caused by excessive government in the first place.

[@Hugh9]

Colossal mistake. Massive understatement.

[@lochnessmunster1189]

@@SJG-nr8uj He seems to know nothing about these things.

[@JHatLpool]

Very well said, John Major.

[@rolandhawken6628]

With Friends he said . What in EU ? The French hate us I mean hate they hate everyone ,but for us they reserve a special spot , That is why they would not give us the shut down codes for Exocet missiles in Falklands war ,and even Major has admitted they block our financial services that was even when we were a member

[@4tnine]

"Very well said, John Major,’ you say. Really? If EU membership offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) felt it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU, already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@JHatLpool]

@@4tnine Really ? Come back to me when your comment has +66 (and counting) thumbs up.

[@4tnine]

@@JHatLpool Hello JHatLpool. Oh dear but you really shouldn't put any value on the approval ratings from people who cannot even define the EU. You haven’t attempted to put forward any counter argument to the point I was making and that’s simply because you don't have one.

[@JHatLpool]

@@4tnine You don't really put forward any argument. Simply because you don't have one.

[@user-cp9cn9ge1j]

As a Brit who has worked in the EU all my professional life (40 years plus, and NOT as a Eurocrat) to promote understanding and cooperation, and was not allowed to vote in the referendum for precisely that reason, I look aghast at the damage done to the country by the liars and clowns who brought us to this catastrophe and who have no understanding of how the world works. How come people like John Major came to be displaced by the idiots that now govern the county? At least I have dual nationality and neither I nor my family will have to suffer the disaster on the UK’s horizon.

[@sadjaxx]

They have no conception of just how bad it is going to get. Worse and worse every year.

[@gertjan1710]

@@petertimmermans8425 stomme boer, je opmerking is totaal niet relevant, 'begrijpend lezen' graag

[@thesilkpainter]

I used to live in the UK and part of my heart will always be there. Still after Brexit I was told that it would be good if I was deported, being German and a lesbian. I was told I was a parasite taking British jobs. I was also told that I was educated at the UKs expense. I was educated in Germany, Sweden and Spain and only studied 4 years in Britain to become a speech therapist. ( there was a reciprocal agreement that meant that students could go to Gernany from the UK and get studies funded.) I was one of the UKs cheapest workers. I cried when Brexit happened and we decided to move to Europe. Many NHS workers did the same. I find it shocking that people still say that Brexit has its good points and that people sabotaged Brexit. The only ones really benefitting are mostly our modern Pirates. These are people so rich they can live well anywhere.

[@Tommyshark5]

Well-spoken Sir John Major I'v never believed that leaving the European Union was right and voted to remain. I wish the voice of Sir John was heard more at the time of the referendum.

[@lornahenry406]

It was! People wouldn’t listen

[@Jan-se1nd]

The current crop of British politicians who are unable or perhaps more to the point unwilling to look at the EU for what it really is, a pragmatic, political solution, baffle me. As a Dane, I never thought I'd see such decadence in my lifetime. In spite of always knowing and sharing some of the same skepticism of the EU, what we're witnessing now is mass insanity -- a breakdown of ethics and a political and cultural collapse far beyond my wildest imagination.

[@batcollins3714]

But, but, but what about "Stop the boats" isn't that more important, what about "Brexit means brexit" and "out means out" or "oven ready deal"? When a population gives an 80 seat majority to a government based on a few three word slogans and the waving of a flag that has no importance for two of the countries ruled by it, then you cannot expect us here in the EU to take you seriously.

[@Jan-se1nd]

@@batcollins3714 Agreed. I'd just like you to understand, as I wrote, that I'm Danish and as such also 'here in the EU'.

[@fred7371]

It's even sadder when you realise that those in power are a reflection of the country. Major, represented perhaps a generation that no longer exists. These days we have a representation which is more akin to entertainment. A rolling circus of ignorance and contradictions. I guess instead of decadence i would have picked decline, and i guess that's also a representation of what happened across the pond. When reason is superseded by ego.. reminds me of roman collapse, i might be a bit off.

[@SunbathinginAntarctica]

​@@fred7371I think you've hit the nail on the head there. We are being governed by an out of touch incestuous elite whose destructive actions to the country have no consequences for them. Very much like the last days of Rome.

[@Purple_flower09]

​@@Jan-se1nd Brexit happened for several reasons. But it was only made possible because English people don't consider themselves Europeans. For the English, Europe is "over there". So leaving the EU was psychologically not difficult for them to contemplate. In other countries in the EU this doesn't apply. Sadly for the Scots there are a lot of English people in the UK so they always get what they want.

[@kev643]

You can not change a club unless you are a member. Running away is never the answer. Why had the UK not the courage and ability to change things.

[@MolloyPolloy]

Like burning your house down because you didn't like the curtains. Its an absolute shambles, and unmitigated disaster sold by gangsters in 3 piece suits.

[@ab-ym3bf]

It doesn´t need "courage". As for ability, the Uk wanted to "change" things that weren´t of interest to the other members. Since "change" for the Uk seems to mean "getting something for the UK" instead of something that is better for the EU as a whole and thus its members.

[@ab-ym3bf]

@@peterholden3672 it isn't "generally accepted" outside the UK, it just crossed the t's and dotted the i's of an existing concept that St the time wasn't high on the priority list of the other members, but the uk saw a way out of its misery for itself. Besides, it has nothing to do with my post about "reforms" Cameron or the UK wanted and didn't get enough ayes for.

[@dangerousdave9626]

The UK tried to change it from within for decades and got absolutely nowhere. Remember Blair giving away some £7bn of "rebates" in the vague promise that the Common Agricultural Policy would be reformed? That didn't happen. And how can we forget Cameron being laughed out of the door when he went swanning off to Brussels to try and secure concessions for the UK a few months before the referendum? Does that sound to you like the UK ever had any "influence" in the European Union? The very fact that a British Prime Minister feels he has to go cap in hand groveling to a bunch of unelected, unaccountable, out of touch bureaucrats based in Brussels to beg for powers that should naturally reside with any sovereign country simply highlights the inadequacies of the EU. The fact is we have learnt that the EU is untrustworthy and incapable of reform by their previous actions.

[@ab-ym3bf]

@@peterholden3672 I completely know and understand history, I was part of that history, not the English re written self-important version of it. And yes Cameron was, is and will always be a fool on every mission or errand, because brits simply don't get the concept of the EU.

[@chocolatesugar4434]

He’s right. Instinctively it knew it was wrong to vote for brexit as it meant being on our own.

[@gwine9087]

You weren't alone, before, but, when you joined the EU, you turned your back on the Commonwealth.

[@grahamf695]

@@gwine9087 sadly, there is a lot of truth in that. But our national interest lies more in Europe than in the Commonwealth.

[@dunnomate3587]

@@gwine9087the commonwealth turned their backs on us first, we are in no debt to them

[@dunnomate3587]

@@SJG-nr8uj reckless expansion? The EU has rules for its members and they have to meet economic criteria. And the EU is doing very well because Of their contribution. Poland has transformed completely from 30 years ago and has experienced rapid economic growth and development because of of the EU

[@dunnomate3587]

@@SJG-nr8uj as for North African migration because of French colonialism in Africa they have also had close ties and preferential visa policies to North/West French speaking Africans. This has nothing to do with the EU it’s France

[@martindoyle2150]

Refreshing to hear a Tory who doesn't send the blood pressure through the roof.

[@ernstjo3888]

No fan of John Major but i agree with every clear, considered and accurate word, wise words indeed...

[@ernstjo3888]

@@SJG-nr8uj... He did say that the EU is by no means perfect. Bering in mind that as a member of the EU the UK had a big say in the economic and social direction of The EU and had the ability to steer and change those policies... but as a non member it has lost it's standing and influence within the EU and sadly on the world stage. The UK has diminished itself economically, politically and socially through the lie of brexit.

[@4tnine]

@@ernstjo3888 Hello ernstjo. SJG-nr8uj asked you a question which you then failed to provide a pertinent answer to. Fact is, you have no idea what the EU means when it describes itself as a "unique economic and political union". I doubt you've ever heard of the Werner Plan and that you've only just become aware of Hungary's spat with the EU but didn't know about Poland's. And, probably like every other remoaner commenting on this video, you are totally unaware that MEPs have voted through a proposal to abolish EU member state's vetoes.

[@ernstjo3888]

@@4tnine Hey 49, how's brexit working out for you ? haha.... Fact is, you fell for the lies and conspiracy theories (straight banana brigade). I am fully aware of the political aims and direction of the EU. As i said in reply sjg... 'it's not perfect' but better in it, with the ability to change and steer the direction, than outside throwing tantrums and wreaking havoc on your own country... In any 'union' there will be diverse opinion, just take the Uk as example, hardly 'united' at the moment !

[@CatholicSatan]

Every FTA to which the UK signs up _involves a degree of a loss of sovereignty._ The deals you do with other countries involve you giving up something in return for something else. For example, lower tariffs on your goods but relaxed rules on visas. Increased quotas for your cheese but increased quotas for _their_ hormone infested frozen beef. Relaxed rules on rules of origin for your exported cars but reduced rules on your part for _their_ poorer workers' rights and environmental standards. BRexit sovereignty is also more expansive. Before BRexit, the UK shared the costs of regulations (chemical, medicinal, electrical, air safety, and so on and so on) with eight or nine other EU contributing countries. Now all those costs are being borne by the UK alone - and it's costing industry _billions_ as a result. Yes, BRexit was a colossal mistake.

[@bh5037]

well said but the gaslighted electorate decided that fish , flag and foreigners were more important than safety, rights and friendship. well done UK !!!

[@darrencousins506]

John Major talks a great deal of sense logical and rational rare qualities in todays political leaders! I’ve never voted Tory but he is one very much worth listening too. A voice of reason how refreshing!

[@IndySidhu88]

I'm Labour supporter and I really did like Major growing up, apart from the affair he was really interested in the wider and general picture. He was always clear and concise with his points and always listened to the other sides even if he didn’t agree.

[@lochnessmunster1189]

The EU does nothing that real free trade in Europe can't do.

[@bardsamok9221]

​@@lochnessmunster1189You're a liar. Post Brexit reality proves that was a lie. The trajectory of the UK has suffered drastically according to all talented economists. We're a much poorer nation as a result, and British science has suffered the same. There's more holding us back now than before Brexit.

[@ChristianThePagan]

"... it is those **strategic issues** that make me believe that we should be in Europe and that we have made made a colossal mistake in leaving ..." ... and It is amazing how hard it is for even some very powerful people to understand that, nuff said.

[@marcobelli6856]

Bro let me tell you the most 3 happiest people in the world after Brexit: Xi Jinping, Putin and the CIA director. All three of them don’t like that EU might be as powerful as them if United. They like to play with us separately because as single countries they can treat us as puppets

[@ChristianThePagan]

@@SJG-nr8uj Wooosh ....

[@jeanjohnstone4384]

the situation is sad and very depressing. 😑

[@4tnine]

It's very depressing that the remoaners cannot provide a pertinent answer to the following: the EU describes itself as “… a unique economic and political union,” what do YOU think is meant by the term, “political union,” what does that entail exactly and what do YOU think the EU is aspiring to become?

[@peterklauza1481]

John Major talks a lot of sense. Not heard any of that from any politicians recently

[@4tnine]

Hello peterklauza. “John Major talks a lot of sense.” you say. No, he doesn’t. If EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) felt it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU, already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@peterklauza1481]

I hope you are in government. First fact I've heard for a long time.......

[@bonbahoue]

L'UE est un concept jeune, très jeune. Il faut du temps pour que sa cohésion soit efficace. La rejeter est une erreur mais le pire pour moi est l'acharnement envers la France et les autres pays. Il y a une expression ici :"voir la paille dans l’œil du voisin et ne pas voir la poutre dans le sien".

[@nobodynone]

aux Pays-Bas, nous avons la même expression. 👍

[@marcobelli6856]

@@nobodynonebecaue it’s something Jesus said in the gospel I think most European countries have this expression

[@skrich9690]

The UK is governed by rich people who think that Britain still has an empire and is the greatest country in the world. It isn't and hasn't been for a very long time but many people still choose to believe it.

[@nobodynone]

@@SJG-nr8uj No I didn't forget It but I also remember that a lot of rules in the EU were broad forward by the UK, rules that hurt them now and they are angry about against the EU.

[@nobodynone]

@@SJG-nr8uj and I don't think there is much wrong in that because Unity has strength in numbers brexit is a proof of that with the United Kingdom as an example and so is the USA on the other example of a union.

[@srenkampmortensen5554]

Wise words from Major😊 By the Way …….We miss UK i EU❤

[@thesilkpainter]

Yes we do! You could export better things than Farage or Johnson though. Please.

[@kevinbarker125]

I couldn't agree more.Normaly when you make a mistake in life, you put it right because that is the only thing that makes sense! We need to put this gargantual mistake right!

[@GrampyT62]

Reasoned thinking rather than listening to who shouts loudest and going with them. Europe is a long way from being some kind of paradise but we would be better off as part of it.

[@1guitarlover]

Very bright man. His arguments are simply unbeatable.

[@estherbillington3141]

I have never voted Tory but I also have enormous respect for Sir John Major. It is clear that he towers above anyone in the existing Tory party. Sir Keir Starmer would do well to echo Sir John's wise words about Europe and make moves to start educating the electorate towards rejoining. We ignore the evidence of the results of remaining out of Europe at our peril.

[@climatehero]

That was obvious from the get go.

[@peterbullen3347]

Exactly,

[@mikewa2]

The amazing thing is that everyone knows now that it’s a ‘mistake’ and we were lied to but nothing is happening to correct the lie!

[@lochnessmunster1189]

Let's say that France left the EU. Would this make it harder, or easier, for French and UK producers/consumers to exchange with each other?

[@nieuwegeljo5645]

From the Netherlands: VERY WISE words indeed!! I wonder what Boris Johnson, Rees-Mogg, and their financial backers would have to say to this.

[@lochnessmunster1189]

What 'problems' does the EU solve?

[@nieuwegeljo5645]

Too stupid a question!@@lochnessmunster1189

[@kevinoreilly4169]

A perfectly reasoned point of view that I wish more people subscribed to, alas people in the UK never really seemed to value it.

[@JonDanzig]

This video has already been viewed over a million times. It deserves even more viewers! Please do your bit by helping to share this video to a wider audience. Knowledge is our best defence, and attack, against the "colossal mistake" of Brexit.\ Thank you. Jon

[@ichbinbluna3504]

UK must stop the dumbing down in schools. 1000 lies about the EU could be spread over and over again by the right-wing and extreme right-wing propaganda media of the rich. That's how the Nazi press in Germany worked back then too. Until the ordinary people were infiltrated. The same thing happened through the British media. And the school, which was supposed to make people immune to propaganda through factual knowledge, failed. Because the party of the rich, the Tory party, had destroyed the education in the normal schools - except for the elite schools for the children of the rich.

[@bardsamok9221]

Thanks for putting the truth out there Jon. If only 'Brexiteers' could see the potential they've lost since Brexit. That would be a sobering panacea for future ignorance. Informed decisions are essential.

[@bardsamok9221]

Perhaps it would be worth putting some economic analysis of the true costs of Brexit into the KZbin domain. Buying power down, energy prices up, rights lost, restrictions increased, economic slump, science networking down etc etc I don't think your average fence sitter quite grasps the multi billion growth opportunity cost that funded the crisis that Brexit delivered. Not to mention inward immigration tripling, as opposed to the lie that immigration would go down.

[@iansilk1836]

Leading brexiteers, where are they now, gone to ground,or complaining this is not their fault!!!!

[@thepatriot4076]

They claim it wasn’t the Brexit they voted for

[@GAMIwitheoI]

yeee no EU fiscal union all the money to NHS instead, yee no economic and political union we want more barriers, yee back our sovereignty with a new Imperial fleet, yeee reckless immigration expansion from Bangladesh India China central south and east Africa

[@nicolaasstempels8207]

Very short summary: - the.UK is subject to EU regulations, when inside it has influence on those regulations, when outside it has basically none.

[@lochnessmunster1189]

There should be no EU regulations. All they can do, is limit consumer freedom.

[@johnomalley760]

An honest and much respected man.

[@chrisdann1049]

Leaving the EU was a massive mistake. Massive. John Major is quite right when he says that the benefits of being inside the EU far outweigh the negatives of being outside. However, it could be corrected with another referendum?

[@lochnessmunster1189]

What does the EU do, that real free trade cannot do?

[@Semiartificial]

@@lochnessmunster1189have you actually listened to and understood what business owners say about dealing with European customers after Brexit?

[@lochnessmunster1189]

@@Semiartificial Yes. And you'll find that the barriers are actually caused by the existence of the EU. If it never existed, free trade would be far easier, and customers would have more choice too.

[@davidthompson2715]

​@@lochnessmunster1189but it does so we have to deal with reality

[@lochnessmunster1189]

@@davidthompson2715 Yes, but if other countries could understand this, and leave too, and we disbanded the EU, we could have much freer trade in Europe, and not have to pay the salaries and pensions of unnecessary politicians.

[@Stefan-fm8op]

What an underrated great politician...

[@4tnine]

Hello Stefan ...Referring to John Major, you say, "What an underrated great politician." No, he isn’t. If EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) felt it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU, already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@Stefan-fm8op]

@@4tnine Hello, Well, it depends on what type of security we are talking about. The EU offers in some ways security in an economical way and surely has also a political impact. Yes, it is not perfect and needs Reform, also is it questionable if signing on more and more countries is a wise thing to do. NATO as a military organisation offers protection in a way that all member states can feel protected as a whole, at least so far. We will see which way NATO will take in the future. I would rather love to see European forces to form a military organisation which will then join in and be part of NATO. We are definetely to dependend on USA, etc. NATO is also not free of a crisis, if you remember the conflict between Greece and Turkey, both members. In the end, every country is free to decide if it wants to join in or not and must the be living with the consequences. There are rules and even if not all rules might be liked, they are the rules. Over time they might get changed. I`d rather be part of a powerful group of nations, economicaly as well as from a military point of view, than being on my own and facing the danger of being overlooked. So, let`s agree that we disagree with our view on what was said and what it meant in regards to the EU but agree that we both have the same view on NATO. That's a start... Stay healthy and have a great day!

[@wilhelmignis1314]

Völlig logisch und überzeugend 🙏

[@MrDavideaton]

Wize words, I'm not a Tory but this guy is making perfect sense

[@markthomas328]

Agree 100% ……I wish we could do something about it

[@bardsamok9221]

Becoming a good conversationalist, spread the word, make a difference, disarm ignorance.

[@valevisa8429]

A friendly union makes you stronger.Isolation makes you weaker.

[@lochnessmunster1189]

How does the EU make the citizens of it, 'stronger'?

[@valevisa8429]

In times of peace or crisis,an alliance of people will always be stronger than one. It's elementary my dear Watson. @@lochnessmunster1189

[@danganbeg7225]

​@@lochnessmunster1189In every way

[@lochnessmunster1189]

@@danganbeg7225 Please explain how.

[@rogeratygc7895]

@@lochnessmunster1189 Perhaps you should listen to the video.

[@JonDanzig]

Someone just commented that the continent-wide farmers' protests proves that the EU is a failure. This was my reply: Today, the vast majority of European countries are in the EU or want to be. The EU will settle the farmers issue. But without the EU, there wouldn't be any farming policy that gives our continent food security and helps to tackle climate change. We have to be careful about wanting to go back to a Europe without the EU or something like it - a continent packed tight with countries more used to resolving their differences through violence and war. Whatever its flaws - and of course there are many - the EU has provided the structure to enable European countries to collaborate, in peace and democratically, to decide on the running and future direction of Europe. The farmers issues are valid and important. But the EU, working together, has the aim to find solutions to common problems - as it will with farming. The EU model isn't perfect, but you can't name a better one in the world today.

[@batcollins3714]

What a practical and brilliant answer.

[@bh5037]

Jon , since when did you change from Brexshiteer to Remainer ?? any special reason for it ..??

[@maartenaalsmeer]

Protests indeed don't equal failure. It just means that people are sticking up for their rights. And are free to do so, in the EU. People are also listened to in the EU: because yesterday the European Commission withdrew their proposal for halving pesticide-use by 2030. The proposal was one of the issues that angered farmers. Frau UvdL stated: (maybe not literally, I translated from Dutch) "We've not presented a business case that's convincing enough for farmers, instead it is polarising. We need more dialogue and a different approach." This is what grown-ups do, in politics. Being pragmatic and sensible. In comparison, Brexit was a toddlers temper-tantrum.

[@youkosm]

And what do you know, the decision makers do take account of the protests attempt to change the policy

[@colmquinn7860]

This is true for immigration as well as farming. The EU will find a way to fairly deal with immigration. The UK will be outside the arrangements

[@grahampalmer]

Absolutely correct in my opinion.

[@4tnine]

Do consider, if EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) found it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU, already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@crazyman8472]

Didn’t any of these people ever watch “Yes, Minister”? 🤦‍♀️

[@lublondon]

Decent, clever , intelligent and honest assessment

[@marcobelli6856]

This need to be broadcasted in schools

[@lochnessmunster1189]

What does the EU actually do, that real free trade in Europe cannot do?

[@4tnine]

Hello marcobelli. “This needs to be broadcasted in schools,” you say. No, it doesn’t; it’s utter tripe. If EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) felt it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU, already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO. What really needs to be taught in schools is the economic and political objectives of the EU and how they will impact the sovereignty of member states. Unlike the remoaners, the next generation should be able to provide a pertinent answer to the following: the EU describes itself as “… a unique economic and political union,” what do YOU think is meant by the term, “political union,” what does that entail exactly and what do YOU think the EU is aspiring to become?

[@marcobelli6856]

@@4tnine because Eu give you the protection of France Italy Germany… but NATO give you the protection of USA that is even more important of course

[@lochnessmunster1189]

@@4tnine Precisely. Remoaners will talk of the EU countries having "common goals", as if countries can have goals. And those Remoaners who claim that a "political union" will prevent war have to pay attention to the fact that the political union of the USA in the 19th century actually accelerated war between the member States, as they were no longer free to conduct their own affairs separately.

[@marcobelli6856]

@@4tnine and about what is the Eu is of course trying to be a federation. But it’s gradual because people are obtuse they still see the world through the lens of nations states. When nation states are just an abomination of history.

[@barrydavidgaudry4050]

Well reasoned argument in favour of U.K. in Europe. The ONLY sensible commentary I’ve heard from people ranting from either side. Throws a shaft of light on the insincere verbiage from Sunak and Starmer.

[@4tnine]

First of all, the UK never left Europe, which is a continent. It left the EU which is not a trading bloc. Consider, if EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) found it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU, already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@alexandergroom]

A pity this argument wasn't put forward more prior to the Brexit vote. This strategic benefit and the benefit it brings was the single most important reason to vote to stay.

[@josemendes3985]

Sir John Major is iven today the most honest politician i ever known im the UK . Long life for you Sir John Major. From Portugal 🇵🇹

[@timoakley277]

What a marvellously measured statement. Good man.

[@4tnine]

Hello timoakley. Referring to John Major’s words, you tell us, “What a marvellously measured statement. “ You’re wrong. Consider, if EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) found it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU, already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@MrRocketguitar]

Definitely. The day after the vote I was in a French supermarket people were coming up to me saying why?

[@lochnessmunster1189]

Why have the EU in the first place? If the EU is the answer, what's the question?

[@tonyselmanah7411]

Sir John Major is quite right. I knew it was going to be a big mistake and I convincingly expressed it many times since before the referendum.

[@abrahamdozer6273]

The UK just broke off free trade talks with Canada over cheese ... the UK fancying themselves as a economic colossus that Canada just can't live without. Canada has free trade with the EU, the rest of North America and some of South America as well as wide swaths of the Pacific Rim. Who exactly are the incompetent negotiators, here?

[@matthardern1594]

Spot on

[@leonardgibney2997]

If Maastricht was so good, why did those six countries which originally held referendums vote against its ratification? Some were founder members of the old EEC, in which the UK was a member, but the federalists couldn't leave well alone.

[@ulicadluga]

2:23 - We've likely given up more "sovereignty" being under basic WTO terms than we ever gave up by being in the EU.

[@stephenfegan6827]

Well said John spot on

[@Trebornudd69]

Who do you think is right? Major or Sunak/Truss/Johnson/Mogg/Braverman/Pritel/Bendinoch/Farage/Habib??

[@jimmurray2965]

Totally underrated International STATESMAN!

[@randar1969]

It's a bit scary when someone not from my country thinks very much like me inside the EU.

[@MrPedur]

Fewer rules = greater profits. (for the rich) Fewer regulations = poor quality and no consumer protection. (for the others)

[@audreymcgready4329]

And no rights if they get their way.

[@nixer65]

You don’t even get that. Without complying to the EU regulations you can’t sell to them. Hence lower profits. That’s why they scrapped the bonfire of the regulations - business explained that they would move to the EU if that happened.

[@maxmartin7080]

Brexit was always about the wealthy looking after the wealthy!

[@lochnessmunster1189]

Not correct. Fewer rules: smaller companies can compete much more effectively against the corporations, thus lowering the profits of the rich.

[@allanclarke5551]

The majority of British politicians didn't want Brexit because they would have to start working instead of sitting on their ar##e carrying out the EUs rules.

[@nicolass7102]

Brexiters lies

[@9grand]

your Govt lie when the deported the Chagossians for a U S military base

[@johncowan1993]

Please stop saying Brexit was a mistake. Of course it wasn't a mistake. Its done exactly what was intended for the few people it was intended to benefit!

[@SorendeSelbyBowen]

@@SJG-nr8uj European federalism! Shiver!

[@danganbeg7225]

​You didn't listen to what Major said, did you? NATO takes away more of your sovereign but you never complain about that

[@keithfallon-norris9570]

Such a sensible point of view 👍

[@4tnine]

Referring to John Major's words, you say, "Such a sensible point of view' No, you're wrong. If EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) felt it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@bardsamok9221]

​​​@@4tnineYou're completely deluded. EU and NATO are different organisations. EU members have security, scientific , development, growth, and economic agreements that supercede NATO. For example many countries including France etc have massively beneficial energy, military, and economic agreements applicable to EU ONLY, in _addition_ to NATO benefits that everyone gets eg: article 5 protection. Do your homework before spouting malicious lies about institutions that greatly benefit European nations.

[@saydvoncripps]

I think most of us realise that, if not before, then now. Question is, who'd we vote for to put it right?

[@rasmuslampposselt3564]

What a sensible argument... Is he really a politician?

[@John-nf9ip]

Momma always said that "stupid is as stupid does"

[@jamesnicoll8415]

Totally agree 👍

[@stephenarcher8929]

The real tragedy is that he was saying as much in 2016. But the British opted for everlasting cake.

[@philipb2134]

He was very eloquent.

[@willieckaslike]

The amazing thing here, is the ability of those who are or have, 'walked the corridors of power', to realise errors after they have been committed ! Whereas many (48%) of the public knew this before it was voted upon. We, the taxpayer's, pay these people handsomely to Govern, make laws, and to ensure our welfare & security are maintained to the highest possible standards. Yet, on every issue they have completely failed to do this. Since BLAIR, in his eagerness to please "The Idiot BUSH", took us into a war, of which at least 70% of voters, and his own Security Service, were set against. THATCHER, in turn made dramatic cuts in the Welfare budget, causing hardship to many, even earning herself the sobriquet of "Snatcher Thatcher", when she took away the free milk for infant schools. Then came her introduction of the "right to buy" of Local Authority owned & managed affordable homes. Although this did allow many to buy successfully, also led to many being repossessed by her Banker friends, and ultimately to a shocking shortage of such housing. This in turn led to high increases in homelessness. Moving on we were then faced with the crash of 2007/8 incurred by firstly, greedy American Investment bankers. The "fallout from this led to British High Street banks being "bailed out of trouble" by the Labour Government led by Gordon BROWN ! Then to CAMERON, who without doubt inflicted the gravest error of the age, by instigating (on the order of his party donors & others) BREXIT ! Which despite the claims by various "PIP" (Prats in Power) is the root cause of Britain's ails. Add to this, the most corrupt, sleazy, mercenary, gang of pretend MPS, ever known and there you have it !

[@Robert.S459]

Thatchers Right to Buy caught ordinary folk out big time, it was yet another Tory con where its true purpose would only become apparent years later when local authorities were banned from using the money building new homes. Thatcher opened a future for private landlords and their profits. The final assault on those less well off that owned a ex- council property is that, all if not most of its future value would be cash grabbed in care costs, Again mostly paid into the coffers of private care homes.

[@MazzaEliLi7406]

Thank you.

[@duderino1950]

As an American, I will readily admit to not having an insider’s knowledge of all the ramifications of Brexit. But sometimes an outsider perspective is warranted. It seems clear that the British economy has contracted in the last few years since Brexit. The NHS will lose upwards of 40% of its doctors within the next 1-2 years, mostly to Canada, a few to the US. All because there’s not enough money to pay them what they’re worth. I’m sure there are a myriad of other examples from other sectors of the economy.

[@peterburandt4586]

"Elementary my dear Watson" 🙂 And yet, so many missed it.😞

[@garryferrington811]

Certainly sounds more sensible than Rishi Rich, who laughed in a woman's face when she asked why the NHS is sinking.

[@lochnessmunster1189]

The NHS is sinking because it's Socialist. The "solution" to failure? More and more of worker's wages being thrown at it (without the workers' permission, as usual).

[@jasbarsoph]

Here’s a man who makes sense.

[@4tnine]

No he doesn't. If EU membership really offered the security that Major claims it does, then why have Finland and Sweden (EU members) found it necessary to apply for membership of NATO? All but 4 EU states are members of NATO so the security that Major claims can only come about through the EU, already exist through the UK’s membership of NATO.

[@patrickguinnane]

This speech and the one he did before the vote proving his points will literally go down in history.

[@davidstokell-nv7jr]

Very wise man I am not a Tory but I agree with him and Ken Clarke