David Campbell-Bannerman: A Decent Man

As an MEP with seven years experience on European Parliament trade deals, I tear my hair out at half understood claims, lurid assumptions and unbridled ignorance in much media reporting. Take for example scaremongering claims by our now former Ambassador to the EU, Sir Ivan Rogers, that a UK-EU trade deal could take 10 years. Or the claims that 38 EU parliaments need to accept our deal. Shock, horror, fear – we will be in limbo for years! These are half-truths.

In reality, there are three broad aspects to how long a trade deal takes.

First, how much either side gives it in terms of resources and political prioritisation. Second, how much change to current terms is required, and therefore how many negotiating sessions are needed. Third, how long a successful, signed deal takes to be ratified by those 38 national and regional EU Parliaments. Telegraph.

I have long felt that David's defection from Ukip some years ago was yet another area of conflict in which Nigel had been involved. I recall speaking to David after a hustings meeting for the party leadership and, without saying one negative word, it was abundantly clear that he was yet one more person with whom Nigel had fallen out.