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Mr Maloney

My stance on the EU has never been obscure. I voted remain with serious reservations about the institution. Those reservations were based on the political aspirations expressed by many within it who are seeking a federal state. The EU has many faults but we have not escaped them simply by leaving it and anyone who thinks so or who is still intoxicated by the triumphant nationalism is going to be seriously disappointed.

It is utterly absurd to continue asserting that the High Court ruling is designed to reverse the decision of the referendum. While that may be possible in constitutional theory it is absolutely impossible in realpolitik. If Parliament votes on leaving the EU it will be to confirm the referendum not overrule it.

Come next year many of the happy Brexiteers are going to experience serious disappointment. The assumption that Britain is going to get what it demands in every deal is preposterous. We have already seen the ridiculous promise of a windfall for the NHS come to nothing and there is more to come.

It should not be assumed that the Royal Prerogative would end immigration, result in tarrif free trade or prevent Britain still being dictated to by 'Brussels'. We have left the EU, it has not gone away. The plain fact is no one knows what is being proposed and under the Royal Prerogative you won't until it has happened. It is very interesting that those who demand sovereignty, democracy and transparency are happy to take that chance.

Now once and for all you can rest assured that Britain will be leaving the EU. As for the other aspirations expressed forthrightly during the campaign (but not in the referendum question itself) we will have to wait and see. I would suggest that a secret deal exercised under Royal Prerogative is not likely to be as 'satisfying' as most Brexiteers might expect.