More Brexit delusion over Galileo project

It would be a victory for dark, regressive forces if, as a consequence of Brexit, Britain was excluded from the European Union’s €10bn Galileo satellite navigation project.

Despite that, it is hard to see how a state that has rejected the core values of the European community could share in its core defence mechanisms. The security risks are too great.

Tragically, this is another consequence of the blowhard “Leave” campaign’s dishonesty. Did they really think they could get a divorce but still get cover under the family’s house insurance? It seems so. As he arrived in Brussels yesterday, UK chancellor Philip Hammond warned that the UK will build a satellite navigation system to rival Galileo if Brussels blocks access. In some setting, this may play out as a fine example of the bulldog spirit, but in a joined-up, grown-up world it looks like another example of Tory delusion.

Despite that, Royal Irish Academy president Professor Peter Kennedy warned yesterday that Ireland’s research links with the UK must be protected in any post-Brexit deal. In a stable, settled world, that position is undeniable, but as Brexit negotiations approach a deadline, it seems that realpolitik will prevail.

Tough choices lie ahead.

Britain has got itself into this mess and maybe it should apply its “world-leading science and business brains” to finding a solution for everyone afflicted by its increasingly indefensible position.