‘Brexit means Brexit’ has been the UK government’s mantra since 2016. But by believing in it without defining it, the idea has taken on a life of its own.
Brexit now means all things to all people: Deal or no deal; Norway, Canada, Turkey or the WTO; a customs union, for now or forever; a second referendum or a general election.
The UK parliament’s vote against the draft withdrawal agreement this week was not a vote in favour of any of these options (see EUROPE 12172). As Michel...