Challenges with the Brexit

What is the issue?

In recent times, there has been a series of developments in the Brexit which has created more problems and instability in Britain.

What are the hurdles in the way of Britain’s proposed exit?

• The withdrawal agreement struck between UK and EU has some contentions which are not agreeable to the Britain.
• One issue in the deal is regarding the physical border between Northern Ireland (part of UK) and the Republic of Ireland (part of EU) which will become the frontier between the UK and the EU. Click here to know more about the Ireland pressure on Brexit deal
• To address this, the withdrawal agreement includes a “backstop” plan to ensure the border remains as smooth as possible until a trade deal between the UK and the EU is struck.
• But the backstop plan could also leave the UK subject to EU regulation even after Brexit, with no room for negotiations.
• Therefore British Prime Minister Theresa May postponed her vote on the withdrawal bill anticipating its non-passage in the Parliament.
• Following this, the Prime Minister survived the vote of no-confidence from members of her own Conservative Party.
•  And also hit a stumbling block when EU leaders refused to renegotiate the deal.

What’s the future for the Britain and the Brexit deal?

• The British Prime Minster has three weeks to get the withdrawal bill passed in the Parliament, failure of which will create uncertainty.
• Also, the UK is now stuck with the deal already renegotiated with the EU.
• In the event of unforeseen events, possible scenarios like leaving the EU without a deal, another referendum (this would require new legislation and majority support in Parliament), and even a general election may happen in the UK.

Source: The Indian Express