[Dogbert]

Originally Posted by Hack&Lube

I've lived/studied in Brussels and attended EU government institutions on exchange.

The flow of money, goods, and access to markets is not a one-way street from London to Brussels. "This is SUPPOSED to help them" is the most accurate statement from the above. In reality, this is going to pound the pound and bring down markets and create instability for a good period. The increased trade and travel barriers will restrict the flow of goods, labor, and knowledge. The increased borders and bureaucracy will increase tensions. The economic benefits touted by the exit campaign were largely skewed and can be interpreted as very misleading.

And no, they cannot simply go back. The UK needs to re-apply for the accession process from a position of weakness in which the other member states need not acquiesce to any of their demands. They have have given up all rebates and all exemptions (Schengen, monetary union) and will have to negotiate from a disadvantage if they need to crawl back.

Furthermore, based on the voting maps, Scotland and Northern Ireland have a very good reason to re-initiate referendums on their independence as well. Much of the Scottish independence vote was predicated on promises of remaining in the EU. Scotland overwhelmingly voted to stay in the EU in the Brexit vote whereas England (save for London and other metropolitan areas) voted to leave.

Don't forget Farage and his band of fascists getting an honest-to-God voice in a Boris Johnson government!