Briefings Press release: UK Internal Market Bill undermines Withdrawal Agreement and could lead to No Deal
Press release: UK Internal Market Bill undermines Withdrawal Agreement and could lead to No Deal
UK Internal Market Bill undermines Withdrawal Agreement and could lead to No Deal
The government’s proposed Internal Market Bill, due to be published this Wednesday, is reported to threaten the Withdrawal Agreement through undermining the Northern Ireland Protocol and provisions on state aid.
The Trade Justice Movement, which represents sixty organisations including major trade unions, environmental NGOs, faith groups and development charities, has voiced concerns about the threat this could pose to achieving a deal with the EU before the end of the transition period.
Ruth Bergan, Senior Adviser at the Trade Justice Movement, said:
"The UK is increasing the chance of No Deal and putting at risk its international reputation through undermining the Withdrawal Agreement. Plans for the Internal Market Bill demonstrate a lack of vision on the part of the Government when it comes to talks with our closest and most important trade partner.
“This could have been an opportunity to develop a trade relationship that was truly fit for the 21st century: a relationship that ensured trade played its part in tackling the climate and environmental crises, that we are better able to respond to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and that we achieve the sustainable development goals. Instead the government is prioritising short-term political objectives which push us ever-closer to no deal, and all of the significant risks that brings for the UK and other economies."
Reports on the Internal Market Bill and its effect on the Withdrawal Agreement:
Financial Times: UK plan to undermine withdrawal treaty puts Brexit talks at risk
Guardian: Michel Barnier 'worried' by No 10 plans to renege on Brexit deal
Telegraph: Ministers threaten to rip up Brexit divorce deal as they say businesses need 'certainty'