Hammond Says It Would Be ‘Madness’ for U.K. to Reject Close EU Ties
- Warns that a sharp break with EU could hurt jobs and growth
- Urges Conservatives to stop ‘navel-gazing’ and govern Britain
King Sees ‘Early Saber Rattling’ in Brexit Talks
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Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond said it would be “madness” for the U.K. to reject the closest possible ties to the European Union, warning fellow ministers that voters won’t forgive them if Brexit damages the economy.
Hammond welcomed the intervention of business leaders who have called for a transition period as the U.K. departs the EU’s single market, saying it was “helpful.” Speaking to reporters at the Group of 20 summit in Hamburg, he laughed at the idea that Brexit might be undone, saying Britain has never been comfortable in a political union with Europe.