The Intelligence from The Economist Suspend, disbelief: Parliament and Brexit
Aug 29, 2019
John Peete, Brexit editor for The Economist, dives into the political chaos following Boris Johnson's controversial suspension of Parliament and its implications for Brexit legislation. Jane Rickards, correspondent for Taiwan, analyzes the U.S. arms deal with Taiwan and China's military reactions, shedding light on the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Taiwan relations. Meanwhile, the fascinating conservation story of New Zealand's kakapo highlights human efforts to save this endangered species from extinction.
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Parliamentary Suspension and Brexit
- Boris Johnson suspended Parliament to limit lawmakers' ability to block a no-deal Brexit.
- This has sparked outrage and protests, with some calling it a threat to democracy.
Opposition Response
- Opposition politicians reacted furiously to the suspension, some describing it as the "day UK democracy died".
- They accuse Johnson of a "smash and grab" on democracy to force a no-deal Brexit.
Analyst's Perspective on Suspension
- John Peete believes the suspension, while potentially legal, is a cynical tactic to minimize parliamentary efforts against a no-deal Brexit.
- Johnson's move aims to limit the time MPs have to legislate or prevent no deal.