A Decade of Brexit: Reflections and Future Prospects
Sky News marked the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Brexit referendum with a two-part podcast series exploring the political and social aftermath.
The first part, published on January 1, 2026, features contributors Beth, Ruth, Harriet, and Michael Gove discussing the referendum's profound impact. David Cameron's decision to hold the 2015 referendum was described as a political gamble that reshaped UK politics. The campaigns were characterized by intense tribalism and a stark Leave versus Remain choice. Ruth and Harriet examined challenges faced by the Remain campaign and why its messaging did not always resonate with voters. On the Leave side, dynamics included high-stakes strategy, Boris Johnson as a key figure, and attempts to limit Nigel Farage's exposure on major platforms. Michael Gove reflected on his initial belief that the referendum was a mistake and expressed regret over undermining Johnson's bid to become prime minister after the vote.
The second part of the series, also released on January 1, 2026, features an interview with Nick Clegg. Clegg critiques Brexit as an elite-driven project that has left the UK poorer, weaker, and more reliant on American technology companies. He predicts that Britain will eventually rejoin the European fold but stresses that significant internal changes must occur first. The episode also references the Remain campaign's shortcomings and the rise of grievance politics as contributing factors to Brexit's outcome.
Together, these podcasts provide a comprehensive reflection on Brexit's decade-long legacy and the potential paths forward for Britain.
