The new badge was meant to showcase his dedication to strengthening the bonds among England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, which together make up the United Kingdom. Scotland and Northern Ireland voted against leaving the EU in 2016 but were powerless to stop it. Sturrock’s shifting views are music to the ears of Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who has hung much of her political career on the fight for Scottish independence. The half-in, half-out status angers those who see it as a wedge being driven between the people of Northern Ireland and the rest of their compatriots in Britain. (Peter Morrison / Associated Press)AdvertisementWhether Johnson can stanch the upwelling of dissent and disillusionment in Scotland and Northern Ireland is an open question.

Source: Los Angeles Times January 27, 2021 08:47 UTC