All Out War summary

Beginning of a Political Revolution

In All Out War by Tim Shipman, the story begins with David Cameron, the British Prime Minister, who had promised a referendum on whether the UK should remain part of the EU. He believed that the referendum would quell the growing Euroscepticism within his Conservative Party and thwart the UK Independence Party (UKIP) from gaining more ground. However, Cameron's gamble backfired when the majority of Britons voted to leave the EU.

Shipman takes us behind the scenes, revealing the intricate political maneuvering and the intense internal party conflicts that characterized the lead-up to the referendum. He describes the strategies of the two main Leave campaigns - Vote Leave, led by Michael Gove and Boris Johnson, and Leave.EU, headed by Nigel Farage, and how they exploited public sentiment and fears to their advantage.

The Aftermath of Brexit

Following the shocking Brexit vote, Cameron resigned, leading to a leadership race within the Conservative Party. Shipman provides a detailed account of the leadership contest, showcasing the backstabbing, plotting, and shifting alliances that characterized the race. The contest eventually culminated in Theresa May becoming the Prime Minister, with her famous phrase 'Brexit means Brexit'.

Shipman then delves into the complex negotiations between the UK and the EU. He depicts the challenges faced by May's government, including internal divisions, opposition from the EU, and the growing public discontent. The author also highlights the role of key figures such as David Davis, the Brexit Secretary, and the controversial strategist Dominic Cummings.

The Political Fallout

The latter part of All Out War explores the political fallout of the Brexit process. Shipman discusses the 2017 snap election, called by May to strengthen her hand in the Brexit negotiations, which instead resulted in the Conservative Party losing its majority. The author provides an analysis of the campaign, attributing the unexpected results to May's poor performance and the Labour Party's successful manifesto.

Shipman also examines the impact of Brexit on the Labour Party, which was grappling with its own internal divisions over the issue. He portrays Jeremy Corbyn's leadership and his ambiguous stance on Brexit, which managed to attract both Remain and Leave voters. Despite a growing anti-Semitism scandal, Corbyn's position as Labour leader remained secure.

The Ongoing Battle

In the closing chapters, Shipman looks at the ongoing Brexit negotiations and the subsequent power struggles within the Conservative Party. He presents the challenges faced by May in securing a deal that would satisfy both the EU and her party, ultimately leading to her resignation. The author also discusses the rise of Boris Johnson, a prominent figure in the Leave campaign, as the new Prime Minister.

In conclusion, All Out War provides a comprehensive and gripping account of the UK's tumultuous journey towards Brexit. Shipman offers valuable insights into the political strategies, personal ambitions, and public sentiments that shaped this historic decision. The book serves as a compelling narrative of a nation divided by its relationship with the EU and the profound impact of this division on its political landscape.