Philip Hammond hints at softer Brexit

It was delayed by a week, but when it came it was significantly different in tone to Theresa May’s thoughts on Britain’s departure from the EU during the General Election. Chancellor Philip Hammond’s Mansion House speech suggested plans for a slower, softer Brexit than the Prime Minister appears to favour. His speech seemed to reflect not just Cabinet differences on Brexit, but a growing readiness of ministers to set out their own stall ahead of tomorrow’s Queen’s Speech.