Five years since the UK left the European Union, the director of the Good Growth Foundation argues that closer ties with our closest trading partner is more vital than ever

It is approaching five years since the UK officially left the European Union. And what do we have to show for it? The Tories admit that they took the UK out of the EU without a plan for growth, and the consequences are clear: the cost of living is soaring, public services are on their knees, and growth feels like a dream from a distant era. Though some may not like to hear it, a closer relationship with the EU is a key piece in solving that growth puzzle.

For too long, Westminster has avoided this topic. Any politician, business leader, or journalist brave enough to acknowledge that Brexit has harmed the UK economy was accused of dredging up the past. But, whisper it – times are changing.