Michael Heseltine, British elder statesman, former Deputy Prime Minister, and First Secretary of State, speaks to, up to an estimated million demonstrators, rallying for a Peoples Vote on the final say on the Brexit deal between the United Kingdom and the European Union. Lord Heseltine robustly criticises the present Conservative Party policy of trying to leave the European Union, but advocates remaining an EU member, and a People's Vote. Parliament Square, London, UK, EU 19/10/2019
“Brexit is not a decision taken for a parliament or for the next decade. It is a creeping paralysis, where yesterday’s nostalgia distorts tomorrow’s opportunities.
“The very existence of our United Kingdom now hangs by a thread. Brexit will not bring us together. It is the wedge that will drive us apart.
“Europe, our largest home market will embroil us in years of detailed negotiation. Every decision will now be decided by unanimous votes of the remaining 27. Trade deals take so long because they can be hijacked by small groups in any one of those parliaments or even local authorities, leaving us at the mercy of every European pressure group.
“They call it taking back control. They dream of Donald Trump as some newly discovered benefactor when it is clear that the only special relationship he knows is ’America first’. Yes we will save our contributions. The price - our economy already poorer by amounts that dwarf any savings.
“You have come from all over the country. From all parties and none. All generations, every class and creed. You’re British and proud of it. That is the heart of the matter.
“Pride in our history, our traditions, our culture, commits us to the partnership of modern Europe. Our voice has echoed across the centuries in a very different Europe. A Europe of bitter nationalism. A Europe of deep religious divide. We have helped to create a Europe of peace. A Europe where national pride and loyalty can be pooled in a shrinking world to enhance the power and influence of us all.
“In coming today you are marching into history. Not the history of yesteryear but the history of tomorrow.
“Do not lower your sights. Do not avert your gaze. Look straight. Look up.
“March on.”
Date: 19/10/2019
Location: Parliament Square, Westminster, London, UK, EU
Photographer: Richard Keith Wolff
