European Parliament publishes draft resolution on future EU/UK relationship

Published: 12 March 2018

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The European Parliament has published a draft resolution to be voted upon during this week’s Plenary session covering the framework for the future EU/UK relationship.

The draft supports the Commission’s draft Withdrawal Agreement published in February and expresses support for both the transitional arrangements and the fair and equal treatment of EU and UK citizens living in the UK and EU respectively.

Some commentators have suggested the European Parliament position to be more amenable to the UK than the recent European Council paper, suggesting an “association agreement” could provide an appropriate framework for the future relationship, based on the pillars of: trade and economic relations; foreign policy; internal security and thematic cooperation, all with a consistent governance framework and robust dispute resolution mechanism. The draft resolution states that the free trade area requires convergence with the EU acquis and a binding role for the CJEU in the interpretation of such law, reiterating that sector by sector cherry picking is not permitted. It also highlights the fact that even closely aligned third countries with identical legislation cannot enjoy similar rights, benefits or market access to those of EU Member States.

If members have any questions or comments, please contact Oliver Robinson.