When I started to write this monthly update about the impact of the referendum result I thought we would all soon run out of things to say and the 2-3 year process would be tedious. Far from it. This month there have for me been four standout issues.

1. The decision by Nissan to invest further in the Brexit heartlands is fascinating, with questions of probity raised. 
2. The impact of the brexit result on Mark Carney’s decision to step down as BoE Governor is intriguing. 
3. The long drawn out trade agreement between Canada and the EU shows how difficult negotiations could be.
4. The high court ruling adds yet more conflict and speculation. The vitriol against either Gina Miller -who brought the case to court -or the judges who ruled on it is demeaning, the press coverage of the decision has been deplorable. It was fair that the process for Brexit was questioned and the judges ruled on the law. There is nothing in the court’s judgment to block the will of the people or to reverse the result of the referendum The debate should have been helpful to inform and temper views but they seem to become more polarised. It is a great pity. Whatever happens MPs would not vote against the views of their constituents.

The bottom line, I think, is there is a lack of confidence in the politicians about how our exit from Europe will happen. A distrust of David Davies, Liam Fox, Boris etc. that they will not be able to negotiate a good deal. It is not necessarily a reflection on those named but an extension of the lack of appreciation worldwide for politicians generally. If I were in Teresa May’s leopard print heels I would seek to engender  a spirit of national confidence by forming a ‘Star Chamber' of leaders from all fields with differing views that could assist in our negotiations. 

My suggestion would be to ask the following-

Sir Paul Smith 
Baroness Martha Kane Fox
Sir Richard Branson 
Sir Antony Gormley
David Adjaye OBE
Yinka Shonibare MBE
Stella McCartney OBE
Sir James Dyson 
Lord David Putnam
Rachel Whiteread CBE
Sir Martin Sorrell

and of course me.

The Star Chamber would ensure the views of the arts, fashion, music, manufacturing and business to help strike a deal which negotiates with Europe but also looks wider. In the last month WW+P have pitched for work in Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and Latvia. Looking to the world as well as Europe. Hopefully the Star Chamber could help the country do the same but first we need to produce the goods, technology and services that the world wants.

And next time if I have the courage I will reveal my plan for trade and movement of people after Brexit.