There was a time, not so very long ago, when there were 3 things of which most British people agreed we could be proud:

• our armed forces
• our universities, in particular the quality of their research
• our civil service, and in particular our diplomats, who “punched above their weight”

No longer. The armed forces have been diminished in number and reputation; universities have been reduced to profit centres; and our diplomats have been out manoeuvred and out gunned.

Just five years ago we were one of the most influential countries in the world, as a result of our leadership and administration of Europe. Now, at best, our international reputation is as the mouse that roared.

Ten years of Tory government has just about done for us. Corruption is rampant, expertise despised, administration chaotic, we have betrayed our friends and been seduced by cowards and liars.

The 30th June deadline is now passed: Britain leaves Europe at the end of this year. A moment of national shame the like of which we have not witnessed before.