UK Government to continue Brexit talks despite plea by SNP

The SNP is urging the UK Government to “hit pause” on Brexit negotiations and seek an extension to the transition period in order to focus on the coronavirus pandemic.

The party’s Brexit spokeswoman, MP Philippa Whitford, said it would be irresponsible and “an act of economic and social self-harm” to continue “hurtling” towards the transition deadline.

Post-brexit talks with the European Union will continue this week despite the UK and much of the Continent being on a coronavirus-enforced lockdown.

Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove will co-chair discussions via video conference as the two sides look at implementing what is in the Withdrawal Agreement once the transition period ends, which is due to happen on December 31.

Dr Whitford called on the UK Government to immediately seek an extension to the transition period.

She said: “It is impossible for businesses and others to prepare for life outside the EU while coping with the impact of the Covid-19 crisis at the same time, and many might struggle to survive the second blow of a hard Brexit at the end of this year.”

She added: “It is now vital that the UK Government hits pause on all Brexit negotiations and immediately seeks an extension to the transition period to remove the uncertainty and instability.”

A UK Government spokesman said their top priority as a government is to slow the spread of the coronavirus, protect the NHS and keep people safe but that they remain fully committed to the Brexit negotiations.

He added: “Last week, the UK and EU shared draft legal texts and discussions with the commission are continuing.

“The transition period ends on 31 December 2020, as enshrined in UK law, which the prime minister has made clear he has no intention of changing.”