Mark this is a great article and a reminder of a valuable fundamental. As several respondents point out trade is not just about the free exchange of goods and services. Here in Europe (not just the UK) an ill informed and deceitful view of trade was also at the heart of the Brexit debate. It may be that as a result of the vote, the UK will now embrace a more open trading relationship with the world but don’t count on it. Anti immigration and other anti free trade arguments were at the heart of both the Leave and Remain campaigns. Like the US there are strong forces in all parts of politics who seek to undermine trade in the name of “resisting globalisation” and similar.

This attitude is also rising in many countries of the EU and on its borders to the East. Expect anti trade arguments to advance toward the mainstream here too. Partly as a result of the negotiations over the UK leaving but also in respect of TTP’s cousin TTIP (Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership). One of the many consequences of the UK’s choice may well be the defeat of this important treaty.

I will now go and read the book to see if that cheers me up! Thanks again.