A former Tory chancellor has defended Brexit against claims it has damaged Britain’s economy.
Lord Lamont insisted the UK’s departure from the EU has not had “any harmful effect”.
He was asked during an appearance on GB News whether he thought Covid or Brexit had hit the UK’s economy hardest.
The Brexiteer, who was in the Treasury from 1990 to 1993, said: “Well I don’t think Brexit’s had any damaging effect on the economy.”
Host Camilla Tominey said: “Ah, tell that to the Europhiles.”
Lord Lamont continued: “If you just look at our trade statistics and our trade statistics with Europe, they’re back on trend where they were before.
“I don’t dispute that some small businesses find a lot of the form filling rather onerous.
“Large businesses I think like Nissan said the other day they had to their surprise found actually they were coping perfectly well. I don’t think it’s had any harmful effect.”
Elsewhere, Lord Lamont warned against “gimmicks” and “tricks” in Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Budget this Wednesday.
Asked if it would be make or break for the Conservatives, he said: “Of course, budgets are very, very important moments.
“This is likely to be the last Budget before the General Election.
“But British people are very smart. They recognise gimmicks. They don’t want any tricks.”
He also urged Mr Hunt to “stick to your own convictions”.
Lord Lamont said: “Do what you think is right. That’s the most important thing. Of course, you’ve got to give some indication about the future.
“He may not be able to do everything people want with taxes now, but indicate what he hopes to do in the future as well.
“I don’t think he can produce a rabbit out of the hat. As I say, he’s not a conjurer.”
