With the recent controversies of the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union, the possible effects of this decision have become a focal point in the political, economic, and social spheres of British citizens. By analyzing this situation, concerned citizens and others can't help but wonder what the future of this country will look like.
In London neighborhoods such as Camden Town, the recent referendum and Brexit debate has sparked various conversations regarding the aftermath of their markets, businesses, and economies if this new law passes. Many of the Camden locals are unsure of what the future holds and if they’ll be positively or negatively affected by these recent controversies. The market vendors have vocalized their opinions on this issue and many worry about what is at stake.
“The majority of our income in Camden comes from what we sell in our markets,” said Camden vendor Mihaela Hinov. “As a local vendor, I have been working here for 10 plus years and leaving the EU has never been a question until now.”
The Brexit deal has sparked not only a global conversation but a local conversation amongst the Camden vendors and businesses. As the markets become more commercialized the need for imported goods or items will increase with new tax laws being implemented. Currently, the United Kingdom’s trade deal with the EU consists of a 40% tax on its services and a 56% tax on its goods. The elimination of this trade deal could drastically change the lives of Camden Town vendors and residents, and be a significant loss of trade for the EU.
“I know that the trading policies will have a huge effect on our markets and our neighborhood’s income which is why I think we should stay together instead of separating,” local market craftsman Ben Williams said.
Although some of the locals in Camden may think that Brexit will bring financial burden upon the community, there are others who have opposing views and believe the UK’s departure would be a positive thing for the nation.
“So many of the EU’s rules and regulations are too restrictive towards Britain,” Camden Town resident Fredick Simmons said. “I don’t think it’s fair that we have to put up with all of it.”
Many British citizens and politicians have questioned the validity of some EU laws have cited these restrictions as one of the focal points of the pro-Brexit argument despite the UK approving 87.7% of EU laws between 2010 and 2015.
"As the UK, we should have the right to choose our own laws and not wait around for the EU to do something about the issues happening in our country, not the rest of Europe,” Camden Town resident Alice Woods said.
With the future looking a little unsure the residents of Camden are looking to the upcoming referendum for clarity. Although the UK is making an initial move to separate, many wonder what they’re even heading towards.
“Thinking of what the next five to ten years will look like is scary,” waitress Harper Bell said. “The fate of our country is at stake and we can only hope that things will clear up soon, for the sake of Camden and the rest of the UK.”
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