Big Tory win sets the seal on Brexit

Labour voters deserted in huge numbers and its red wall was suddenly vulnerable to a Tory assault.

From Blyth Valley onwards, the Conservatives made inroads into areas unthinkable even in the heyday of Margaret Thatcher.

With such an emphatic victory the UK has some certainty after years of dithering and doubt. Brexit may not please half the nation but, as Boris promised again and again, it is going to happen.

Quite when and in what form remains to be seen. But all thought of reversing the 2016 referendum died at 10pm last night when the exit poll came in.

There can be no excuses now. No complaints of an obstructive House of Commons blocking the will of the voters. No setting the people against parliament.

With such a large majority the expectation has to be that the Conservatives will quickly deliver on their key promise and close the door on the fraught first stage of Brexit before looking to transition and the final deal. Fail and they will have only themselves (and the EU) to blame.

The Bailiwick of Guernsey, like much of the world, has looked on in horror for three years as the UK lost its way, unable to decide whether to go forwards or backwards.

The split of our major trading partner from its major trading partner will still be difficult. But at least the islands can start to plan for some form of Brexit, confident that there will be no more second thoughts.

There will also be sighs of relief among many political and financial leaders here that a Labour Party with such a hostile agenda on tax and the offshore communities did not get into power.

Looming battles over sovereignty, beneficial ownership and the legitimate role played by offshore finance and tax planning have receded.

That said, there will remain concern here as well as in the UK about whether Tory promises to reinvigorate the NHS and boost the economy will be fulfilled and whether the party can show the ambition and vision that is needed on both the climate crisis and social care.