The editorial argues that Brexit continues to impose long-term economic and diplomatic costs on the UK, even where these effects are less visible than immediate disruptions. It says additional border procedures and regulatory requirements have made trade with the EU more difficult, reducing exports, investment and Britain’s influence in European policy-making.

Citing analysis by Logistics UK, it says restoring UK trade openness to its 2019 level could add £11.7bn in output, or about £400 per household. The article also refers to broader estimates that Brexit has reduced GDP by at least 4 per cent annually—around £100bn or £4,000 per household—and argues that the resulting lower tax revenues have constrained public spending and living standards.