"The key missing piece in the Brexit story." Tim Shipman, The Spectator | "A wonderful read from one of the most quietly influential people in politics in recent decades … Highly recommended." Chris Mason, BBC
The 2016 Brexit referendum caused a political earthquake, with aftershocks that are still being felt a decade later. For many, including some who voted to leave, the result came as a surprise. But for one man, it was not. The outcome that stunned so many was something he had been working to achieve for twenty years.
You may not have heard of Matthew Elliott, but you should have. He is one of Britain's most successful campaigners, a reserved and thoughtful strategist who has single-handedly shaped our political landscape. In 2011, he staved off an attempt to change our voting system through the successful NOtoAV campaign. Then, five years later, he steered Vote Leave to victory as its chief executive.
This extraordinary memoir spans the period from the build-up to Brexit during the 1990s to the present day, providing a fresh perspective on what really went on during the campaign, how the result was won and its bitter aftermath. With his customary candour and wit, Matthew reveals what it's like working side-by-side with Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings, their dealings with Nigel Farage and the tricks of the trade that campaigners use to shape the news.
Here, ten years on from the EU referendum, is the definitive story of Brexit, as told by the man who had a front-row seat to the most extraordinary political campaign of the modern era.