“Dear colleagues, friends and fellow Europeans,
I can’t make it to DiGS partly due to pressure of work, but partly for another reason. I am honestly ashamed to show my face, and my passport, on your side of the Channel in the present situation. I have never been so ashamed to be British in my entire life as I feel today.
Britain has betrayed itself, its nearest neighbours, partners and allies, and its heritage. There was once a time, just a few decades ago, when British people sacrificed their lives in the name of European freedom. Now Britain, for entirely selfish reasons, has dramatically destabilised the European order, perhaps permanently.
A small majority of the voting population of this island have allowed themselves to be duped by unscrupulous demagogues who are merely seeking personal political advantage, with no regard whatever for the wider good of Europe or indeed of their own nation. The consequences will be felt for generations to come.
I truly wish the EU well. I believe you can prosper without us. We cannot and will not prosper without you.
Malheureusement, ce n’est pas au revoir mais adieu.
Ian.”