Lincoln Imp
Well-known member
- Feb 2, 2009
- 5,964
Plans to allow the United Kingdom an exemption from EU rules on freedom of movement for up to seven years while retaining access to the single market are being considered in European capitals as part of a potential deal on Brexit.
Senior British and EU sources have confirmed that despite strong initial resistance from French president François Hollande in talks with prime minister Theresa May last week, the idea of an emergency brake on the free movement of people that would go far further than the one David Cameron negotiated before the Brexit referendum is being examined.
If such an agreement were struck, and a strict time limit imposed, diplomats believe it could go a long way towards addressing concerns of the British people over immigration from EU states, while allowing the UK full trade access to the European market.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jul/24/brexit-deal-free-movement-exemption-seven-years
Interesting developments. Is this a last ditch attempt to keep us in the club as a semi detached member?
Also interesting that after being told continually that we can only have 'access' to the single market if we agree to free movement it appears the EU may in reality have a more pragmatic approach. Not sure what would happen after a 7- 10 year period though.
The devils will be in the detail but good news if we can retain a foothold in the single market. The Ultras won't like it if it's true though - they have said that they will fight any attempt to establish a Brexit-lite. IDS is claiming that a couple of dozen Tory MPs will resist and that could be enough to force a vote of confidence when the time came. Is it possible that she could be supported by enough members of the PLP to win it? I don't know. If she didn't there would be an election and I guess she would win that. Either way, interesting times.
I've got a view about what should happen at the end of the seven year period but I've had a nice day and I really don't want to be called a cretin by another Albion fan right now so I'll shut up.