Brexit talks could be the most complex ever

The negotiations on the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union may be the most complex ever undertaken by a British government.

In Brussels, the two sides will not only have to unpick a relationship dating back more than 40 years, they will also be attempting to negotiate an ambitious free trade agreement.

One of the first issues to be discussed will be the position of the 3.2 million EU nationals living in the UK and 1.2 million British citizens who have made their home in the EU.

It seems straightforward enough with both the British Government and the European Commission both declaring they want an early reciprocal deal to secure their future rights, marking an amicable start to proceedings.

However, even before the talks have begun, the European side has expressed concern that the British have underestimated just what is required to make such an agreement work.

Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker was said to have reacted with incredulity at a suggestion by Theresa May that an agreement could be wrapped up at the next EU summit at the end of June.

Also high on the agenda will be the position of Northern Ireland and its border with the Republic.

With the Government having said it intends to withdraw from the European customs union, it is acknowledged “flexible and imaginative solutions” are required to avoid a return to the “hard border” of the past, potentially undermining the Good Friday Agreement and the peace process.