I haven’t lived in the UK for many years, and didn’t vote in the referendum. If I had, I would have voted Remain. But I understand those who voted to leave — some of them, anyway.

Over a decade of austerity has seen living standards steadily decline among the working class. A virulent press was all too effective at shifting the blame for this to the EU, when it belonged squarely with Westminster.

Something had to change. It’s just a shame that they chose the wrong thing.

I’ve spoken to people in the EU who understandably feel rejected. But while xenophobia has always been a small part of the British mentality, I don’t believe that’s what lies at the bottom of the Brexit phenomenon. Small-minded John Bulls may celebrate Brexit, but there’s not enough of them to get 50% of a national vote.

At least, I hope not…