LONDON – British Prime Minister Boris Johnson shall soon layout terms of negotiation for Monday’s talks with the European Union, stating that Britain shall prosper even if he isn’t successful in striking his preferred trade deal.
To mark Friday’s Brexit, Johnson shall use a speech to drive home the message that this was a decision where sovereignty trumps economy.
The transition period ends this year on December 31st and a trade deal for future relations between the UK and EU need to be secured by then. Both parties are eager to get this done but on very different terms.
Trade talks are due to begin in March and Johnson has decided to be tougher in his approach that his predecessor Theresa May, not adhering to the rules and regulations of the bloc.
Johnson also said that if EU fails to grant a trade deal allowing quota and tariff-free goods like what is in place with Canada, the UK shall opt for a looser arrangement like the one Australia currently has.
According to experts, Johnson is expected to say that there is no need for a free trade agreement in alignment with the rules and regulation of EU on matters of competition policy, subsidies, social protection, the environment, or anything similar.
He has promised the adhere to the highest standards and will suggest a free trade deal similar to what the bloc already has with Canada.
In the unlikely event that they do not succeed, Johnson is expected to say that trade will have to be based on their existing Withdrawal Agreement.
“The choice is emphatically not ‘deal or no-deal’. The question is whether we agree on a trading relationship with the EU comparable to Canada’s – or more like Australia’s.”
Johnson intends on fulfilling his pledge to “take back control” and, in his speech, will suggest that Britain would thrive either with a Canada-style deal or a looser arrangement.
“In either case, I have no doubt that Britain will prosper,” Johnson will say. “And of course our new relationship with our closest neighbours will range far beyond trade.”
(Photos syndicated via Reuters)
This story has been edited by BH staff and is published from a syndicated field.