40 years of legislation to be unpicked

Brexit negotiations might be the most complex ever undertaken by a British government.

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 will be the position of the 3.2million EU nationals in the UK and 1.2million British citizens who have made their home in EU countries.

Donald Tusk, the European Council president, has warned there must be “real guarantees” for EU nationals to continue to live, work and study in the UK and that a “serious British response” was needed if they are to make progress.

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

“A serious UK response is needed on EU nationals”

with the Republic. With the government having said it intends to withdraw from the European customs union, it is acknowledged that “flexible and imaginative solutions” will be required to avoid a return to the “hard border” of the past, potentially undermining the peace process.

Then there is the thorny issue of money. Although there has been no official figure from Brussels, reports suggest the EU will be looking for a “divorce bill” of at least £50billion in settlement of liabilities.

Other issues include future arrangements on security cooperation and intelligence sharing once Britain is outside the structures of the EU.

Once sufficient progress has been made on the withdrawal issues, the EU say they will open discussions on a new trade agreement.