Would Margaret Thatcher Have Supported Brexit?

The Political Context and Margaret Thatcher's Views

Could Margaret Thatcher have supported the decision for the United Kingdom to leave the European Union (Brexit)? It is a question that has sparked considerable debate among historians, political scientists, and the general public alike. While Margaret Thatcher was not a fan of the European Union, her views on the European Community (EC) and the European Economic Community (EEC) were nuanced and complex. Her stance on Brexit itself would have likely been influenced by her pragmatic approach and her aversion to giving up British sovereignty.

Thatcher's Relationship with the EC and EEC

Thatcher left office in 1990, seven years before the Treaty of Maastricht, which officially established the European Union. During her tenure, she was a passionate advocate for what we now refer to as the EEC. For example, she appeared in a public appearance wearing a dress adorned with EEC flags, demonstrating her warm reception to the organization's symbolism. Her views on the EC and EEC were centred on pragmatic support, as evidenced by her Bruges speech in 1988 where she did not fully endorse the EC's moves toward closer integration.

The Protection of British Sovereignty

Thatcher was vehemently against stricter integration and expressed her opposition to signing the Maastricht Treaty. She saw the EC and EEC as tools for economic growth and trade, not as a threat to British sovereignty. However, as the EC evolved into the EU, its direction and policies diverged from her principles. In particular, her strong stance against the poll tax and her opposition to the Maastricht Treaty suggest that she would have found the eventual form of the EU more impermissible.

Thatcher's Pragmatism and Advocacy for Brexit

When it comes to the concept of Brexit, Thatcher's pragmatic approach is relevant. Although she was not openly in favour of the EU, she was willing to safeguard British interests. It is highly probable that if she had lived long enough to witness the evolution of the EU, she would have either supported Brexit or, at the very least, sat on the fence and respected the outcome of the referendum.

The Backlash and Succession

Shortly after her resignation, she was replaced by John Major, who was seen as a pro-EU advocate. This succession reflects the shift in attitudes and priorities within the Conservative Party. Thatcher's views on sovereignty and pragmatism suggest that she would have campaigned for Brexit, knowing the potential economic benefits and the need to protect British interests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Margaret Thatcher was not a fan of the EU, her general approach to politics and her pragmatic stance would suggest that she might have supported Brexit to some degree. Her focus on economic growth and trade would mean that she would have respected a trade partnership with the EU, albeit with reservations. The question of her full support for Brexit is complex and would depend on the specific directions taken by the EU during her lifetime.