What is the Australian-style Deal Boris Johnson Keeps Promising the UK?

There is no Australian-style deal to be had, simply more euphemisms and doublespeak from Boris Johnson. The UK government’s attempt to sell the idea of a 'no deal' as something positive is nothing more than a cynical political trick. Here’s a closer look at what Boris Johnson’s rhetoric means for the future of UK-EU trade relations.

The Deception Behind 'Australia-style' Talks

The so-called 'Australia-style' deal is a euphemism for a failure to reach a comprehensive free trade agreement. In reality, it means that in the event of a ‘no deal,’ UK-EU trade will revert to World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. This outcome is not a positive one for the UK, as it would be subject to tariffs, quota restrictions, and customs checks.

No Deal, No Gain

Boris Johnson has been using this phrasing to insinuate that not reaching a deal is somehow a good outcome. This is, of course, utterly false. If the UK-EU trade relationship fails to reach a deal, it means that both parties will revert to WTO rules, which will likely result in increased costs and trade barriers. This would be detrimental to both economies, particularly for businesses that rely heavily on the smooth flow of goods and services between the UK and the EU.

The Leadership Vacuum

Johnson’s failure to secure a deal is not just about missing out on trade benefits. It also highlights the vacuum of leadership and trust that has developed within the UK government. The manner in which the government has conducted itself over the past years has raised serious questions about the UK’s ability to be a reliable global player. The uncertainty, disquiet, and public alarm caused by the Brexit negotiations have eroded public trust, leading to a deeply unsettling situation for businesses and individuals alike.

The Stalled Talks and the October 15 Deadline

Despite the looming October 15 deadline, there has been no meaningful progress in the UK-EU trade talks. The talks have become bogged down in issues such as fisheries and state aid, with the EU and the UK unable to reach a consensus. The fear is that Boris Johnson’s attempts to pivot to an ‘Australia-style’ deal are merely a way to avoid admitting the failure of the trade agreement talks. This is a dangerous game that could have severe economic consequences for the UK.

Public Trust and Confidence

Public trust in the government has been significantly damaged by the prolonged uncertainty and the leadership crackdowns. The importance of transparency and accountability cannot be overstated. The failure to honor deadlines and the constant promises of progress that are later discredited have eroded the public’s confidence in the political system. The need for clear communication and a commitment to follow through on promises is now more urgent than ever.

Looking Forward

The talks continue, with rumors of possible progress, but so far, there are no concrete developments. The possibility that Boris Johnson might wait for the US election results before making a decision is just another example of the indecisiveness and lack of direction in Brexit negotiations. The public and businesses are left uncertain and anxious as they await any positive outcome. The situation is a testament to the political sleaze and disacreditation that have characterized the Brexit process.

The Price of Integrity

While Boris Johnson may see the 'Australia-style' deal as a way to avoid admitting defeat, the price of this dishonesty is high. The lack of a clear and transparent trade agreement means that businesses and individuals in the UK face a future of uncertainty and potential economic turmoil. The government must take responsibility for its role in creating this situation and work towards a solution that fosters trust and stability.

The Grassroots Movement

There is a growing grassroots movement calling for accountability and transparency from the government. The public is demanding that the political elite prioritize the needs of the people over political games. This movement is a sign that the UK cannot afford to continue down the path of dishonesty and doublethink. The future of the UK-EU relationship is in the hands of the government, but the people’s trust and confidence must be rebuilt first.

The Conclusion

The 'Australian-style' deal is nothing more than a smokescreen for the reality of a 'no deal' scenario. The UK needs to face this fact and work towards a meaningful solution that benefits both economies. The failure to secure a trade agreement is not just an economic issue; it is a question of public trust and the UK’s reputation on the global stage.