Yet, with the lack of a compelling narrative for a soft Brexit, it is difficult to see how a hard Brexit can be avoided, says CIPS economist John Glen.
Many of us were surprised by Theresa May’s announcement that she was asking for a dissolution of parliament and calling a general election on 8 June. The rationale for this approach, it was argued, was to fight for a larger majority for her party in Westminster which would then enhance the UK’s position in Brexit negotiations.