Systematic social and environmental deregulation, and the economics of austerity while enriching the rich, will be the markers of Farage/Tory politics after Brexit. Singapore-on-Sea for the rich; degradation for the rest.

In this quote, Andrew Adonis, a British Labour politician and Baron Adonis, critiques the political vision he believes will emerge from Brexit under the leadership of figures like Nigel Farage and the Conservative Party (Tory). He argues that systematic social and environmental deregulation and austerity measures will define the post-Brexit political landscape. Adonis suggests that while the wealthy will benefit from a more liberalized, deregulated economy (referred to as "Singapore-on-Sea"), the majority of the population will suffer from increased degradation in terms of living standards, public services, and environmental protections.

Adonis uses the term "Singapore-on-Sea" to highlight the vision of a highly competitive, low-tax economy, similar to that of Singapore, but with a stark divide between the rich and the rest of society. The implication is that the rich will thrive in a more deregulated environment, while the working class and vulnerable populations face cuts to public services, social protections, and environmental standards. This scenario, according to Adonis, would exacerbate inequality and leave disadvantaged groups to bear the brunt of the economic changes post-Brexit.

The origin of the quote lies in Adonis’s vocal opposition to Brexit and his criticisms of the Conservative government’s approach to economic policy and governance. Adonis has been a long-time advocate for European integration and has expressed concern over the social and economic implications of leaving the European Union. His reference to austerity and the enrichment of the rich reflects his belief that Brexit will further entrench existing inequalities and undermine social and environmental protections.

Ultimately, Adonis’s quote captures a warning about the potential consequences of Brexit under the leadership of populist figures like Farage and the Tories. He predicts a future of economic disparity, where the wealthy elite benefit from deregulation and lower taxes, while the rest of the population faces cuts, poverty, and environmental degradation. His statement is a critique of the political and economic agenda he sees as likely to dominate post-Brexit Britain.