Jo Leinen: 'Moment of truth on #Brexit is coming closer'

"The agreement on the table would permanently protect the rights of Europeans living in the UK and of British citizens living in the EU. It would also put an end to the uncertainties for businesses," said MEP Jo Leinen (pictured), S&D spokesperson for the Constitutional Affairs Committee of the European Parliament. "It is the evening that crowns the day. The agreement still has to overcome some hurdles, both in the UK and from the EU’s side. Prime Minister May now has the mammoth task to get the troublemakers in her party and her government under control and to organize a majority in the House of Commons. I think her chances are fifty-fifty."

A rejection by parliament or the British cabinet would have fatal consequences. “The EU can only accept an agreement if it prevents a border on the Irish island - for an indefinite time.  The EU has no room and time for renegotiation." The Brexiteers around Boris Johnson with their fundamental opposition play with fire and take citizens and the economy hostage. If the deal does not pass the House of Commons, a hard Brexit is likely," added Leinen.

However, a second referendum or even new elections could become possible if the UK faces the threat of leaving the EU without an agreement.

It is also clear that the agreement can only be a temporary solution. After a two year transition period, during which the UK will have all the obligations of a EU member, the country will stay in the customs union until a new treaty for the economic relations with the EU has been agreed. Negotiating such a new agreement might take some years.

"Should the UK decide to leave the customs union without a new partnership treaty, the 'backstop' already agreed in December 2017 would come into force. Northern Ireland would then be staying in the EU customs union, and the customs border would be moved into the Irish Sea," Leinen concluded.

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