British diplomats to pull out from EU institutions within days
https://www.theguardian.com/politics...gs-within-days
British diplomats to pull out from EU decision-making meetings within days
Critics say No 10 move to quit bloc’s institutional structures leaves UK blindsided
Quote:
Originally Posted by Guardian
British diplomats will pull out from the EU’s institutional structures of power in Brussels within days, under plans being drawn up by Downing Street.
In an attempt to reinforce the message that the UK is leaving the EU by 31 October, “do or die”, the UK will stop attending the day-to-day meetings that inform the bloc’s decision-making.
The move under discussion is said by UK officials to be in line with Boris Johnson’s first statement in the House of Commons, in which he said he would “unshackle” British diplomacy from EU affairs.
Critics have countered that the symbolic walkout would merely leave the UK blindsided on decisions and ultimately damage the national interest.
EU working group meetings at which British diplomats were expected to take their seats alongside the other 27 member states will deal with issues on security, the pan-European response to any future crises involving civilians, foreign affairs and the protection of consumers interests.
It is unclear how far the UK’s withdrawal from the EU structures would go before 31 October, and whether ministers or the UK’s permanent representative in the EU would ultimately fail to show up for meetings in September and October.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary, Dominic Raab, said he would attend a meeting of his EU counterparts at the end of August in Helsinki.
Excellent news.
The date is 31st October, but there's no reason not to begin the process now.
Meanwhile, No Deal is now leading public opinion polls.