Paul Bristow interview: UK will thrive with or without Brexit deal, Peterborough MP insists

Paul Bristow is adamant that there should be no extension to the transition period with the country fully divorcing itself from the European Union in 2021 so that it can “really focus on what’s important”.

The Conservative MP made voting for Brexit one of his key campaign pledges ahead of his election victory last December, and despite the impact of the coronavirus pandemic he said the Government should leave “come what may” even if it has not been able to thrash out a deal with the EU.

Mr Bristow was speaking to the Peterborough Telegraph to reflect on his first year anniversary as an MP while negotiations between the UK government and the EU were ongoing.

He said: “I’m very proud that one of the first things I did as an MP was to vote for the agreement back in December and to get Brexit done.

“What is absolutely crucial is we follow through with that and leave at the end of this year - no ifs, no buts, no extension - so we can end this Brexit saga and move on.

“Because as a country, once Covid is gone and Brexit is in the rear-view mirror, we can really focus on what’s important. If Brexit is still lingering on next year we won’t be able to do that.

“If we leave without a deal this country will be fine. This country is ingenious, this city is ingenious and we will continue to attract the best people and businesses.

“I still want a deal, but I’m confident deal or no deal the future’s bright with us leaving the European Union.”

Since entering Parliament Mr Bristow has been appointed chair of the British All Party Parliamentary Group for #CANZUK to build closer links with Canada, Australia and New Zealand, a role which he describes as “a great privilege”.

The MP said he wants to see the countries increase economic, security and military ties in the future.

This is one of a five-part interview with Mr Bristow.

The remaining articles will appear at: https://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/news/politics.