PLEASE be aware that myself and over one million others have signed the petition for a second referendum.

There is clearly not a majority of people in favour of leaving the EU overall given the close result, and the fact that over 25% did not vote – especially the young who are already disenfranchised in our political system.

It now emerges many voters may have voted ‘leave’ as a protest at our own politicians and/or establishment rather than to leave the EU – and did so thinking that their leave vote would not affect an overall vote to remain as they thought that was a foregone conclusion. This is not a constitutionally sound result.

I am concerned at what this means economically for our country for jobs, wealth, social cohesion, the environment, and dismayed at the prospect of the break up of the UK with Scotland and Northern Ireland most likely seeking to leave us. In no way can this be seen as progressive or for our benefit.

There are many EU nationals who have made their lives here who are scared, feel threatened, and who’ve contributed greatly to our country economically, socially, and culturally and they should be protected. The mood music in many parts of the country is divisive and unpleasant and it is not something that should be associated with this great country of ours given our proud history of democracy and liberty.

The simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ vote was exactly that, simplistic. There are many nuanced arguments in this whole debate and in the end because of the simple choice, many chose immigration as their key dissent.Many of us woke up fearful and angry on Friday 24th June and refuse to take this lying down. We will work hard to secure the economic, social and cultural success of this country from an internationalist perspective and for the good of our country.

That starts with a second referendum, which is now a must.

Stephen Brown

Kidderminster