Remainers plot to knock Brexit off course before Phase 2 talks begin
REMAIN business chiefs are trying to bully Prime Minister Theresa May into backtracking on her decision to exit the EU customs union in a desperate last ditch attempt before phase 2 of Brexit talks begin.
Brussels-backing businesses are determined to have their say after it emerged the EU is already piecing together decisions that will shape the future of Britain after its departure ahead of the second round of talks.
UK officials are believed to have met EU chiefs over the weekend in closed door meeting to formalise the agreement of Phase 1.
As the period of uncertainty before Phase 2 begins continues, British officials have urged the UK to avoid the “pantomime” that was seen in the first round of talks.
CBI Director General Carolyn Fairbairn is expected to call for the UK and the EU to “revisit red lines” as she urges the Government to rethink its plans to leave the EU customs union and pursue a Canada-style trade deal.
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UK officials are believed to have met EU chiefs over the weekend in closed door meeting to formalise the agreement of Phase 1 Brexit talks
During a speech at the University of Warwick today, she is expected to say: “A Canada deal is an ocean away from what we need,” adding that hundreds of UK jobs are at risk, according to politics news site Politico.co.uk.
Labour’s Chuka Umunna has also shared his opinion.
He said: “It is clear that a majority of the British public and an even greater proportion of Labour voters want the UK to stay in the single market and customs union, which is the best anti-austerity policy there is because it protects businesses and jobs.
“It is vital we stand up against Theresa May’s false claims that it is necessary to leave the single market and customs union if Brexit takes place.”
Officials are expected to hold talks on Britain’s transition period following a meeting of the General Affairs Council on January 29.
The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, has already outlined his expectations for the second phase of Brexit talks – including influence over Britain’s fishing industry.
Mr Barnier revealed he wanted to “co-operate” with the UK on a number of issues including defence, foreign affairs and fisheries.
He also expressed a desire to continue to work with the UK on security, justice and home affairs as well as the aviation sector.
And he warned a future “ambitious partnership” with the UK would only be possible if common ground can be reached on issues such as state aid and social and environmental standards.
