It has been a chaotic month since Theresa May returned to Downing Street as head of a minority government. Many of her allies, like Ruth Davidson, have pressured her into supporting a soft Brexit, which would mean the UK remains inside the European Economic Area, or the Single Market. Economic adviser Dr. Gerard Lyons was correct to suggest the British Government needs to appear united as David Davis begins negotiations with the EU today. Yet isn't it ironic the saviour of a total EU withdrawal is the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond?
'He fails to hold any leverage'
His support for Mrs May's Brexit plans has appeared to be rather wobbly since he was appointed Chancellor. He delivered a pessimistic and cautious Autumn Statement last November, failing to capitalise on the UK's prospects as it prepares to leave the EU. Many thought he would use the collapse of a Tory majority to advocate a softer EU exit to the Prime Minister.
His embarrassing March Budget has weakened his stance in the Conservative leader's eyes. She warned Mr. Hammond she does not care if U-turning on the proposed tax increases for the self-employed would embarrass him, yet he still did it. He fails to hold any leverage over the Prime Minister. Why should she listen to a man who was prepared to tax those likely to vote Conservative?
Therefore he had no choice but to support her plans to quit the Single Market and Customs Union. Given he holds the second highest office in the land, this is still a substantial victory for an embattled Prime Minister and will weaken the soft Brexiteers immensely. Perhaps this is the silver lining Theresa May needs?
