'What are we paying FOR?' Tory MEP slates 'cash-strapped' EU for demanding Brexit bill
A TORY MEP slated the “cash-strapped” European Union for demanding a large multi-billion Brexit divorce bill.
David Campbell Bannerman, co-chair of pressure group Conservatives for Britain, said the European Union was “desperate for cash” and so was putting “pressure” on Brexit arrangements.
Brexit talks remain deadlocked with Britain refusing to bow to stubborn EU demands for a £53billion (€60bn) divorce settlement.
Speaking on Daily Politics, on the BBC, Mr Campbell Bannerman said the EU wanted “as much money as possible”.
Put to him that Britain would have to pay a larger divorce bill than it wanted, he questioned what the money was for as he suggested paying a far lower amount than the EU indicated was acceptable.
GETTY•BBC
The question I ask is what are we paying for and I don’t think that’s clear
He said: “It depends on the commitments. The question I ask is what are we paying for and I don’t think that’s clear.
“The EU wants as much money as possible, they’re doing the same as Switzerland, I was speaking to them this week. They’re desperate for cash, so you do expect that pressure.
“But what are we paying for? We will honour our commitments.
“There will be some ongoing liabilities, such as pensions etc, I understand that.
Related articles
“But you’re not talking about £50, £60 billion, you’re talking about a lot smaller figure than that, probably £20, £30 billion possibly.”
He added for “goodwill reasons”, it made sense to fund the Multiannual Financial Framework, which ensures EU spending stays within agreed limits.
Nigel Farage has conceded Britain will likely cough up €50billion (£44billion) divorce bill into the coffers of the European Union after Brexit.
The former Ukip leader made it clear he does not support the eye-watering settlement as bitter Brussels officials dig their heels in and refuse to move on to the second phase of talks, which could signal a trade deal.
Brexit talks remain deadlocked with Britain refusing to bow to stubborn EU demands for a £53bn (€60bn) divorce settlement.
Nigel Farage tweeted: “Paying a €50bn bill is my prediction for what the government will eventually do - not an endorsement of their position.”
Theresa May and Brexit Secretary David Davis insist that the UK has already made concessions and it is now up to Brussels to show flexibility at the negotiating table.
But a stubborn EU has insisted Britain pays a bigger divorce bill offer before it is ready to move on to the second phase of talks.
