The UK left the EU on Friday 31st January 2020, with mixed emotions, and eleven months of colossal negotiations on a trade deal ahead.  Business is also conflicted, with many concerns, but overall the reduction of political uncertainty has fostered a return to optimism.

The UK emerged from its teens into a new decade this month, on a wave of optimism about the future. The removal of the political turmoil and the alleviation of Brexit uncertainty have added to the feel good factor at the start of a new year. Sentiment is up and there is a widespread view that Britain is at a turning point.

For all planners, forecasters, analysts and political junkies, here is an unbiased assessment of the two main parties’ plans as we undergo a frenetic and emotionally charged General Election campaign. 

The Accountagility Index (AAX) rose 23 basis points in November to 4.99, from 4.76 in October. The Index records UK political and economic health in a score out of ten. Any score below 5.00 is negative, so we remain in the red rather than in the black this month, but by the slenderest of margins.

Whilst Parliament, the Government, the legislature and the EU have been contributing to a feverish few weeks, the UK economy has actually improved. Despite the political twists and turns, the Accountagility Index (AAX) records UK political and economic health in a score out of ten. 

The opposition showed their teeth over the past fortnight, by allying to take control of the Parliamentary agenda and pass a law extending Brexit by three months.  Remainers have triumphed, pushing the exit date out to 31st January 2020.  The Conservative party has lost its majority and cannot even call a General Election, to attempt to resolve the issue.  Notwithstanding this, Prime Minister Boris Johnson appears to be determined to leave by 31st October 2019.