Ireland hails UK move towards ‘pragmatic and much softer Brexit’

THE UK Government is moving in the right direction towards a more “pragmatic and sensible Brexit”, Ireland’s Foreign Affairs Minister has said.

Prime Minister Theresa May published details of how Britain wants to see its future relationship with the European Union yesterday.

The long-awaited white paper containing 104 pages calls for a free trade area and common rules for goods.

Simon Coveney welcomed the latest Brexit plan but said there are a number of “contradictions” and proposals that will concern other EU member states.

He recognised the “difficult week” inside Downing Street following several resignations in response to the proposals agreed at Chequers.

Mr Coveney said that difficult negotiations lay ahead between the UK and the EU but that the Brexit process has moved from the “politics of parliaments” to the negotiating rooms of Brussels.

He raised concerns, however around the UK’s position on access to parts of the single market which has been ruled as red line for EU’s Brexit taskforce.

“There are some contradictions, there are now proposals that will concern some other EU countries because the single market and the four freedoms that are part of that, are a very important part of the privileges of EU

membership.

“That’s why it will be a difficult negotiation,” he said.

“I don’t necessarily think because the British position has changed and has become much more credible, that it’s the final picture, but it’s important to recognise progress.

“The EU side have always said that if Britain soften their red lines then the EU would respond to show some flexibility, so let’s test that in a negotiating room.

“It’s a step towards a much softer Brexit.”

Some seven weeks of talks lay head for EU lead negotiator Michel Barnier and the British Brexit team.

The white paper also stated that the withdrawal agreement will need a backstop agreement but indicated that it will never be needed.