The United Kingdom's Formal Departure from the European Union
2020 · London, United Kingdom
The United Kingdom formally left the European Union, beginning an 11-month transition period and marking the first time a member state has left the EU.
United Kingdom General Election of December 12, 2019
On December 12, 2019, the United Kingdom held a pivotal general election that significantly shaped the country’s political landscape and its future relationship with the European Union. This election was crucial in determining the course of Brexit, the UK’s planned withdrawal from the EU.
Context Leading Up to the Election
The election was called amidst a period of intense political turmoil and division over Brexit. The UK had voted to leave the EU in a 2016 referendum, but subsequent negotiations and parliamentary debates had led to a deadlock. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who had taken over the leadership of the Conservative Party from Theresa May in July 2019, sought a clear mandate to “Get Brexit Done.”
Key Events
Campaign Focus: The Conservative Party, led by Boris Johnson, campaigned heavily on the promise to deliver Brexit by the end of January 2020. Their slogan, “Get Brexit Done,” resonated with voters who were frustrated by the prolonged uncertainty.
Labour Party’s Position: The main opposition, the Labour Party, led by Jeremy Corbyn, proposed renegotiating a Brexit deal and holding a second referendum. Their campaign also focused on domestic issues, including the National Health Service and public services.
Other Parties: The Liberal Democrats, led by Jo Swinson, campaigned to revoke Article 50 and cancel Brexit altogether. The Scottish National Party (SNP), led by Nicola Sturgeon, focused on opposing Brexit and advocating for Scottish independence.
Election Outcome
Conservative Victory: The Conservative Party won a significant majority, securing 365 out of 650 seats in the House of Commons. This was the party’s largest majority since the 1987 election under Margaret Thatcher.
Labour Defeat: The Labour Party suffered its worst defeat since 1935, winning only 203 seats. This result led to Jeremy Corbyn announcing his intention to step down as party leader.
Impact on Other Parties: The SNP increased its presence in Scotland, winning 48 out of 59 Scottish seats. The Liberal Democrats, however, faced a disappointing result, with Jo Swinson losing her seat.
Aftermath and Significance
Brexit Legislation: With a strong parliamentary majority, Boris Johnson was able to pass the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, leading to the UK’s official exit from the EU on January 31, 2020.
Political Realignment: The election highlighted a significant political realignment in the UK, with the Conservatives making inroads into traditional Labour strongholds in the north of England, often referred to as the “Red Wall.”
Future Implications: The election set the stage for ongoing debates about the UK’s future trade relationships, its internal unity, particularly concerning Scotland and Northern Ireland, and the broader implications of Brexit on the UK’s global standing.
The 2019 general election was a defining moment in UK history, marking a decisive step towards the completion of Brexit and reshaping the political landscape for years to come.