After his university in Scotland shut down in the spring because of the coronavirus, forcing him to study online from home, Jack Boag kept up his spirits by dreaming of what awaited him in the coming academic year: a semester abroad at the University of Amsterdam.

But his hopes of participating in the European Union-wide student exchange program known as Erasmus were dashed last week after Britain and Europe finally reached a Brexit deal. As part of the announcement, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that Britain would withdraw from Erasmus, citing its high costs.

“For me, Erasmus was the most direct benefit of European cooperation,” said Boag, a 20-year-old history and international relations student at the University of Aberdeen. “That’s gone.”

For many young people in Britain, the decision to withdraw from Erasmus is just the most recent step in a steady erosion of such possibilities since the country voted in 2016 to leave the European Union. Once able to study and work anywhere in the European Union without a visa, young Britons will now be treated like people from any other country outside the bloc when it comes to applying for educational programs — or jobs.

The withdrawal is also a blow for Britain’s vaunted universities, a powerful symbol of its soft power in Europe and around the world, and an important source of income for the country. Britain remains second only to the United States as a destination for international students, but leaving Erasmus could deter many EU students who might have used the program as a pathway to a British education.

While this may not affect renowned institutions like Oxford or Cambridge, scores of lesser-known universities could suffer a blow.

Many young people and academics had hoped that Britain would remain part of Erasmus under a status that allows the participation of nonmember states like Turkey and Norway. Johnson said in January that there was “no threat to the Erasmus scheme.

So his announcement Thursday sent shock waves through universities, angered diplomats, and upset British students and professors who have benefited from the program.

“There will be a relative loss of income for British universities, but from a diplomatic and ambassadorial point of view, the loss is invaluable,” said Seán Hand, the vice president in charge of Europe at the University of Warwick, the second-largest source of Erasmus students from Britain.

Britain’s departure from Erasmus, one of the most popular programs in the European Union, may be one of the starkest signs of its divorce from the bloc, a clear signal of its vision for its future relationship with its former partners.

“Erasmus opens people’s horizons and broadens their conceiving of the world,” said John O’Brennan, a professor of European studies at the University of Maynooth in Ireland, where he leads a European integration program financed by Erasmus. “If that’s not the embodiment of the European ideal, I don’t know what it is.”

While exchanges will still be possible between British and European universities through bilateral agreements, British students will not benefit from the monthly grants supplied by Erasmus, now officially known as Erasmus+. It will also be harder for academics and teachers to train or teach abroad.

Students and academics who have secured funds before the Brexit transition period ends on Dec. 31 will be able to go abroad until the end of the 2021-22 academic year, according to Universities U.K., a representative group for the country’s academic institutions.

Since its introduction in 1987, Erasmus has sent millions of people abroad for study exchanges, work placements or traineeships. About 200,000 students participate in the program every year. Alumni often speak fondly of the experience, which they see as the most tangible form of European integration: a way to discover new cultures, study other languages, and make lifelong connections.

“Erasmus is not only the student exchange program it’s known for, it’s also embedded in how the European Union thinks about confronting unemployment and mobility,” said Paul James Cardwell, a law professor at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow who participated in the program in the 1990s.

In Britain, half of the students who study abroad do so through Erasmus. For many, it has shaped personal paths and provided an accessible way to feel connected to mainland Europe.

(BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.)

Ben Munster, a 25-year-old British freelance writer who studied in Italy in 2015 and has since moved to Rome, called Erasmus the “purest and most vivid expression of the Schengen dream,” referring to the EU’s passport-free travel zone.

Natalia Barbour, a 22-year-old international communications student at the University of Glasgow who studied in Amsterdam for a semester, said she had wanted to participate since she was in high school. “It makes the university experience more exciting,” she said.

“Everyone wins from it, including professors,” said Mark Berry, a professor in music history at Royal Holloway University of London, who taught in the Netherlands through Erasmus in 2015. “I’d wish I had done more of that when it was still possible.”

In 2019, Britain welcomed more than 30,000 students and trainees through the program.

“So many students come to Britain and go home with a positive experience,” said Cardwell, the University of Strathclyde professor. “It’s such a strong aspect of Britain’s soft power.”

British lawmakers who supported staying in the program wrote in a report last year that opting out would disproportionately affect people from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with medical needs or disabilities.

They also warned that it would be difficult to replace it.

Under the current 2014-20 Erasmus+ program, Britain has contributed around 1.8 billion euros ($2.2 billion) and has received 1 billion euros, according to the Department for Education.

Johnson said last week that a program named after mathematician Alan Turing would replace Erasmus+ and that it would allow students “to go to the best universities in the world.” Starting in September 2021, it will provide funding for around 35,000 students to study abroad, at an annual cost of 100 million pounds. British professors and students from foreign universities would not be eligible for the program.

Britain, however, will still receive funding from the EU’s research and innovation program, Horizon 2020, of which it is the second largest recipient.

Universities U.K. welcomed the Turing program, but other experts called the move shortsighted.

“This will be felt in 20 years,” O’Brennan of the University of Maynooth said. “Britain has miscalculated what it receives from this program.”

Many universities have said they would keep close ties with Europe.

“European universities don’t want the link to be broken, for them it’s very important that their students keep coming to Britain,” said Hand, at the University of Warwick.

For British alumni of the program, the end of Erasmus marked the end of an era — one when they could not only study abroad easily, but also travel across Spain, learn to ski in Austria, or dance at a festival in Denmark.

“That’s what Erasmus is about: It taught me how to appreciate wine and cheese, how to take the time to socialize through hourslong lunches,” said Katy Jones, a 28-year-old who went to France as an Erasmus student and runs an English-language program in Lyon.

Boag, the student in Aberdeen, who is in the third year of a four-year program, said he hoped to apply to postgraduate programs in continental Europe, but that he worried about additional hurdles that have yet to be made clear.

“For Erasmus and so many other things, Brexit is a Pandora’s box,” he said. “We don’t know what’s inside yet, because we’ve just opened it.”

After his university in Scotland shut down in the spring because of the coronavirus, forcing him to study online from home, Jack Boag kept up his spirits by dreaming of what awaited him in the coming academic year: a semester abroad at the University of Amsterdam.

After his university in Scotland shut down in the spring because of the coronavirus, forcing him to study online from home, Jack Boag kept up his spirits by dreaming of what awaited him in the coming academic year: a semester abroad at the University of Amsterdam. But his hopes of participating in the European Union-wide student exchange program known as Erasmus were dashed last week after Britain and Europe finally reached a Brexit deal. As part of the announcement, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that Britain would withdraw from Erasmus, citing its high costs. “For me, Erasmus was the most direct benefit of European cooperation,” said Boag, a 20-year-old history and international relations student at the University of Aberdeen. “That’s gone.” For many young people in Britain, the decision to withdraw from Erasmus is just the most recent step in a steady erosion of such possibilities since the country voted in 2016 to leave the European Union. Once able to study and work anywhere in the European Union without a visa, young Britons will now be treated like people from any other country outside the bloc when it comes to applying for educational programs — or jobs. The withdrawal is also a blow for Britain’s vaunted universities, a powerful symbol of its soft power in Europe and around the world, and an important source of income for the country. Britain remains second only to the United States as a destination for international students, but leaving Erasmus could deter many EU students who might have used the program as a pathway to a British education. While this may not affect renowned institutions like Oxford or Cambridge, scores of lesser-known universities could suffer a blow. Many young people and academics had hoped that Britain would remain part of Erasmus under a status that allows the participation of nonmember states like Turkey and Norway. Johnson said in January that there was “no threat to the Erasmus scheme. So his announcement Thursday sent shock waves through universities, angered diplomats, and upset British students and professors who have benefited from the program. “There will be a relative loss of income for British universities, but from a diplomatic and ambassadorial point of view, the loss is invaluable,” said Seán Hand, the vice president in charge of Europe at the University of Warwick, the second-largest source of Erasmus students from Britain. Britain’s departure from Erasmus, one of the most popular programs in the European Union, may be one of the starkest signs of its divorce from the bloc, a clear signal of its vision for its future relationship with its former partners. “Erasmus opens people’s horizons and broadens their conceiving of the world,” said John O’Brennan, a professor of European studies at the University of Maynooth in Ireland, where he leads a European integration program financed by Erasmus. “If that’s not the embodiment of the European ideal, I don’t know what it is.” While exchanges will still be possible between British and European universities through bilateral agreements, British students will not benefit from the monthly grants supplied by Erasmus, now officially known as Erasmus+. It will also be harder for academics and teachers to train or teach abroad. Students and academics who have secured funds before the Brexit transition period ends on Dec. 31 will be able to go abroad until the end of the 2021-22 academic year, according to Universities U.K., a representative group for the country’s academic institutions. Since its introduction in 1987, Erasmus has sent millions of people abroad for study exchanges, work placements or traineeships. About 200,000 students participate in the program every year. Alumni often speak fondly of the experience, which they see as the most tangible form of European integration: a way to discover new cultures, study other languages, and make lifelong connections. “Erasmus is not only the student exchange program it’s known for, it’s also embedded in how the European Union thinks about confronting unemployment and mobility,” said Paul James Cardwell, a law professor at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow who participated in the program in the 1990s. In Britain, half of the students who study abroad do so through Erasmus. For many, it has shaped personal paths and provided an accessible way to feel connected to mainland Europe. (BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.) Ben Munster, a 25-year-old British freelance writer who studied in Italy in 2015 and has since moved to Rome, called Erasmus the “purest and most vivid expression of the Schengen dream,” referring to the EU’s passport-free travel zone. Natalia Barbour, a 22-year-old international communications student at the University of Glasgow who studied in Amsterdam for a semester, said she had wanted to participate since she was in high school. “It makes the university experience more exciting,” she said. “Everyone wins from it, including professors,” said Mark Berry, a professor in music history at Royal Holloway University of London, who taught in the Netherlands through Erasmus in 2015. “I’d wish I had done more of that when it was still possible.” In 2019, Britain welcomed more than 30,000 students and trainees through the program. “So many students come to Britain and go home with a positive experience,” said Cardwell, the University of Strathclyde professor. “It’s such a strong aspect of Britain’s soft power.” British lawmakers who supported staying in the program wrote in a report last year that opting out would disproportionately affect people from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with medical needs or disabilities. They also warned that it would be difficult to replace it. Under the current 2014-20 Erasmus+ program, Britain has contributed around 1.8 billion euros ($2.2 billion) and has received 1 billion euros, according to the Department for Education. Johnson said last week that a program named after mathematician Alan Turing would replace Erasmus+ and that it would allow students “to go to the best universities in the world.” Starting in September 2021, it will provide funding for around 35,000 students to study abroad, at an annual cost of 100 million pounds. British professors and students from foreign universities would not be eligible for the program. Britain, however, will still receive funding from the EU’s research and innovation program, Horizon 2020, of which it is the second largest recipient. Universities U.K. welcomed the Turing program, but other experts called the move shortsighted. “This will be felt in 20 years,” O’Brennan of the University of Maynooth said. “Britain has miscalculated what it receives from this program.” Many universities have said they would keep close ties with Europe. “European universities don’t want the link to be broken, for them it’s very important that their students keep coming to Britain,” said Hand, at the University of Warwick. For British alumni of the program, the end of Erasmus marked the end of an era — one when they could not only study abroad easily, but also travel across Spain, learn to ski in Austria, or dance at a festival in Denmark. “That’s what Erasmus is about: It taught me how to appreciate wine and cheese, how to take the time to socialize through hourslong lunches,” said Katy Jones, a 28-year-old who went to France as an Erasmus student and runs an English-language program in Lyon. Boag, the student in Aberdeen, who is in the third year of a four-year program, said he hoped to apply to postgraduate programs in continental Europe, but that he worried about additional hurdles that have yet to be made clear. “For Erasmus and so many other things, Brexit is a Pandora’s box,” he said. “We don’t know what’s inside yet, because we’ve just opened it.”

Britain mourns a cherished education exchange program ended by Brexit

However, even without a deal, there will be provisions in place for those who work on one side of the border and live on the other.

Your Story: Spain to allow free movement for Gibraltar workers after Brexit

An “exceptional victory,” the result of “fantastic work” and a deal that “delivered” for the British people.

Even before the text of the post-Brexit trade agreement was published, lawmakers loyal to Prime Minister Boris Johnson lavished praise on him for resolving an issue that has convulsed British politics for almost half a decade.

When Parliament convenes to ratify the document, the question will only be the size of Johnson’s majority for a deal that severs close economic ties to continental Europe on Jan. 1 after almost 50 years. Even the opposition Labour Party will officially support it, arguing that it is better than nothing.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-sold-out-fish-stocks-in-new-brexit-deal-claim-british-fishermen-352636">Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen</a>

Yet this is unlikely to be the final word in the Conservative bloodletting over Europe that has, at least in part, led to the downfall of the party’s last four prime ministers.

Hard-line Brexit supporters have yet to examine the agreement, and they probably will not like every word of an estimated 2,000 pages of dense treaty text and annexes. A small group did not want any trade deal at all, never really trusted Johnson and might still be inclined to make trouble for him.

Already, an organization representing British trawler fleets has expressed disappointment at compromises over fishing rights, and the Scottish government has attacked the deal, arguing it strengthens the case for Scotland’s independence.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/incoming-swiss-president-calls-post-brexit-deal-good-news-for-whole-world-352773">Incoming Swiss president calls post-Brexit deal 'good news for whole world</a>

“In the short term, the Tory Party is pretty united around the very hard Brexit that Boris Johnson pushed Britain toward but which many Britons never thought they were voting for,” said Charles Grant, director of the Center for European Reform, a research institute.

But the agreement provides only limited economic benefits for Britain, and friction with the European Union is likely to remain, added Grant, who said the country’s post-Brexit relationship with the European Union may not be much more stable than what preceded it.

“In the longer term, the rift may reopen,” he said, adding that pressure might grow once the deal’s limitations become clear.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/full-post-brexit-text-goes-beyond-a-canada-style-deal-report-says-352461" hreflang="en">Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says</a>

The pandemic has plunged Britain into the worst recession in three centuries, so post-Brexit politics remain highly volatile, said Anand Menon, professor of European politics at King’s College, London.

And the Brexit debate has poisoned the workings of the Conservative Party, which had long been known for a pragmatic and successful pursuit of power rather than an adherence to political doctrine.

Now, despite achieving his aim of getting “Brexit done,” Johnson cannot assume that the divisions are over.

“Europe has turned the Conservatives into an ideological party, and it has basically got in the way of Conservative governments governing,” Menon said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/brexit-is-finally-done-but-it-already-seems-out-of-date-352414" hreflang="en">Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date</a>

An influential caucus of pro-Brexit Conservative lawmakers known as the European Research Group has yet to weigh in on the agreement, and Johnson has been working hard to bring them on his side. How many of those lawmakers oppose him and who they are will be very significant, Menon said.

“If you have 20 to 40 of them screaming ‘betrayal,’ that changes the dynamic,” he said.

Waiting in the wings is Nigel Farage, the populist anti-EU politician who has now rebranded his Brexit Party as Reform UK and has shown his skill in the past at peeling off Conservative supporters.

On Thursday, Farage cautiously welcomed Johnson’s deal but with the important caveat that he had yet to read the fine print.

Some Brexit supporters have always scented that betrayal would lie somewhere within any treaty negotiated with the European Union and, even before the agreement was struck, it was being denounced as another in a long series of British surrenders to Brussels. One commentary article in the pro-Brexit Daily Telegraph argued that the government had been “outsmarted at every turn.”

Others agree with that analysis, but from a more pro-European perspective, noting that even official forecasts suggest Britain will lose out on significant economic growth under Johnson’s deal.

Many businesses will notice the limitations of Johnson’s agreement as soon as Britain leaves the European Union’s giant single market and customs union on Jan. 1. The accord failed to secure much of anything for the services sector, for example, which accounts for around four-fifths of the British economy.

And the deal increases barriers rather than eliminating them for the manufacturing sector and agriculture. So while there will be no taxes on the import and export of goods, there will be additional checks on them — so-called nontariff barriers.

Delays at ports — of which Britain just got an ugly foretaste, when France briefly blocked all travelers and freight from Britain — will add significant costs to companies, which will have to make an estimated 20 million new customs declarations each year and face other compliance costs.

“In the long run, it is such a bad deal that the more moderate wing of the Tory Party may try to get a better deal,” said Grant of the Center for European Reform, noting the Conservatives’ traditional link to business.

Yet perhaps the biggest danger for Britain is that it is now stranded awkwardly, half-in, half-out of the European economic system, leaving its relationship with the bloc as fraught and politically combustible as ever.

As a big economy that shares a land border with Ireland, an EU country, Britain will be unable to escape the huge trading bloc’s gravitational pull, any more than other neighbors that stayed aloof from it, experts say.

“It means a process of almost permanent negotiation between Britain and the EU,” Grant said, “and every time that happens, it will pump up the emotion and the rhetoric.”

An “exceptional victory,” the result of “fantastic work” and a deal that “delivered” for the British people. Even before the text of the post-Brexit trade agreement was published, lawmakers loyal to Prime Minister Boris Johnson lavished praise on him for resolving an issue that has convulsed British politics for almost half a decade.

An “exceptional victory,” the result of “fantastic work” and a deal that “delivered” for the British people. Even before the text of the post-Brexit trade agreement was published, lawmakers loyal to Prime Minister Boris Johnson lavished praise on him for resolving an issue that has convulsed British politics for almost half a decade. When Parliament convenes to ratify the document, the question will only be the size of Johnson’s majority for a deal that severs close economic ties to continental Europe on Jan. 1 after almost 50 years. Even the opposition Labour Party will officially support it, arguing that it is better than nothing. Also read| Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen Yet this is unlikely to be the final word in the Conservative bloodletting over Europe that has, at least in part, led to the downfall of the party’s last four prime ministers. Hard-line Brexit supporters have yet to examine the agreement, and they probably will not like every word of an estimated 2,000 pages of dense treaty text and annexes. A small group did not want any trade deal at all, never really trusted Johnson and might still be inclined to make trouble for him. Already, an organization representing British trawler fleets has expressed disappointment at compromises over fishing rights, and the Scottish government has attacked the deal, arguing it strengthens the case for Scotland’s independence. Also read| Incoming Swiss president calls post-Brexit deal 'good news for whole world “In the short term, the Tory Party is pretty united around the very hard Brexit that Boris Johnson pushed Britain toward but which many Britons never thought they were voting for,” said Charles Grant, director of the Center for European Reform, a research institute. But the agreement provides only limited economic benefits for Britain, and friction with the European Union is likely to remain, added Grant, who said the country’s post-Brexit relationship with the European Union may not be much more stable than what preceded it. “In the longer term, the rift may reopen,” he said, adding that pressure might grow once the deal’s limitations become clear. Also read| Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says The pandemic has plunged Britain into the worst recession in three centuries, so post-Brexit politics remain highly volatile, said Anand Menon, professor of European politics at King’s College, London. And the Brexit debate has poisoned the workings of the Conservative Party, which had long been known for a pragmatic and successful pursuit of power rather than an adherence to political doctrine. Now, despite achieving his aim of getting “Brexit done,” Johnson cannot assume that the divisions are over. “Europe has turned the Conservatives into an ideological party, and it has basically got in the way of Conservative governments governing,” Menon said. Also read| Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date An influential caucus of pro-Brexit Conservative lawmakers known as the European Research Group has yet to weigh in on the agreement, and Johnson has been working hard to bring them on his side. How many of those lawmakers oppose him and who they are will be very significant, Menon said. “If you have 20 to 40 of them screaming ‘betrayal,’ that changes the dynamic,” he said. Waiting in the wings is Nigel Farage, the populist anti-EU politician who has now rebranded his Brexit Party as Reform UK and has shown his skill in the past at peeling off Conservative supporters. On Thursday, Farage cautiously welcomed Johnson’s deal but with the important caveat that he had yet to read the fine print. Some Brexit supporters have always scented that betrayal would lie somewhere within any treaty negotiated with the European Union and, even before the agreement was struck, it was being denounced as another in a long series of British surrenders to Brussels. One commentary article in the pro-Brexit Daily Telegraph argued that the government had been “outsmarted at every turn.” Others agree with that analysis, but from a more pro-European perspective, noting that even official forecasts suggest Britain will lose out on significant economic growth under Johnson’s deal. Many businesses will notice the limitations of Johnson’s agreement as soon as Britain leaves the European Union’s giant single market and customs union on Jan. 1. The accord failed to secure much of anything for the services sector, for example, which accounts for around four-fifths of the British economy. And the deal increases barriers rather than eliminating them for the manufacturing sector and agriculture. So while there will be no taxes on the import and export of goods, there will be additional checks on them — so-called nontariff barriers. Delays at ports — of which Britain just got an ugly foretaste, when France briefly blocked all travelers and freight from Britain — will add significant costs to companies, which will have to make an estimated 20 million new customs declarations each year and face other compliance costs. “In the long run, it is such a bad deal that the more moderate wing of the Tory Party may try to get a better deal,” said Grant of the Center for European Reform, noting the Conservatives’ traditional link to business. Yet perhaps the biggest danger for Britain is that it is now stranded awkwardly, half-in, half-out of the European economic system, leaving its relationship with the bloc as fraught and politically combustible as ever. As a big economy that shares a land border with Ireland, an EU country, Britain will be unable to escape the huge trading bloc’s gravitational pull, any more than other neighbors that stayed aloof from it, experts say. “It means a process of almost permanent negotiation between Britain and the EU,” Grant said, “and every time that happens, it will pump up the emotion and the rhetoric.”

Boris Johnson delivered on Brexit. It may not soothe his unruly party.

Fishermen in Britain on Saturday claimed that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had sold out British fish stocks to the European Union as part of the recently inked Brexit deal.

The deal gives EU boats a lot of access to the UK’s waters for fishing. Some British politicians also lashed out at Johnson, calling him a sell out.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/it-was-worth-fighting-for-this-brexit-deal-says-eu-commission-chief-352201/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The UK is set to leave EU’s Common Fisheries Policy on December 31. Under the new trade deal which was confirmed on December 24, the current rules are set to remain as is for the upcoming 5.5 years - the transition period.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/full-post-brexit-text-goes-beyond-a-canada-style-deal-report-says-352461" hreflang="en">Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says</a>

As time goes by, the EU and UK will hold annual discussions on the bloc’s access to British waters.

The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations claimed that the fishing industry had been sacrificed by Johnson. 
 
For instance - in the Celtic Sea haddock, the UK’s share will increase from 10 per cent to 20 per cent, which leaves 80 per cent in the mercy of EU fleets for the next five years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/brexit-is-finally-done-but-it-already-seems-out-of-date-352414" hreflang="en">Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date</a> 
 
"In the end-game, the prime minister made the call and caved in on fish, despite the rhetoric and assurances," the group said. "There will of course be an extensive public relations exercise to portray the deal as a fabulous victory, but it will inevitably be seen by the fishing industry as a defeat”, it added. 
The deal will preserve Britain's zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the bloc's single market of 450 million consumers, but will not prevent economic pain and disruption for the UK or for EU member states.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday had described the last-minute agreement as a "jumbo" free trade deal along the lines of that between the EU and Canada, and urged Britain to move on from the divisions caused by the 2016 Brexit referendum. 
&nbsp;

Fishermen in Britain on Saturday claimed that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had sold out British fish stocks to the European Union as part of the recently inked Brexit deal.

Fishermen in Britain on Saturday claimed that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had sold out British fish stocks to the European Union as part of the recently inked Brexit deal. The deal gives EU boats a lot of access to the UK’s waters for fishing. Some British politicians also lashed out at Johnson, calling him a sell out. The UK is set to leave EU’s Common Fisheries Policy on December 31. Under the new trade deal which was confirmed on December 24, the current rules are set to remain as is for the upcoming 5.5 years - the transition period. Also read: Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says As time goes by, the EU and UK will hold annual discussions on the bloc’s access to British waters. The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations claimed that the fishing industry had been sacrificed by Johnson. For instance - in the Celtic Sea haddock, the UK’s share will increase from 10 per cent to 20 per cent, which leaves 80 per cent in the mercy of EU fleets for the next five years. Also read: Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date "In the end-game, the prime minister made the call and caved in on fish, despite the rhetoric and assurances," the group said. "There will of course be an extensive public relations exercise to portray the deal as a fabulous victory, but it will inevitably be seen by the fishing industry as a defeat”, it added. The deal will preserve Britain's zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the bloc's single market of 450 million consumers, but will not prevent economic pain and disruption for the UK or for EU member states. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday had described the last-minute agreement as a "jumbo" free trade deal along the lines of that between the EU and Canada, and urged Britain to move on from the divisions caused by the 2016 Brexit referendum.

Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen

Incoming Swiss president Guy Parmelin said on Sunday that post-Brexit trade deal struck between UK and the European Union (EU) was "good news" for the entire world. Switzerland itself is not a member of EU but is a banking powerhouse and has a relationship that guarantees market access. Parmelin is currently economy minister and set to take over the annually rotating presidency on Friday.

"It is good news for the whole world that an agreement has been reached. For Switzerland too," he told the Sonntags Zeitung newspaper.

UK and European Union were able to strike a post-Brexit deal on December 24 after 10 months of heavy negotiation. The deal will soften economic shock of UK exiting European common market on December 31

Parmelin did not comment on what the deal might mean for Switzerland's own framework agreement negotiations with the EU.

"We are now waiting for the text and will analyse the whole situation," he said.

Experts believe that the Swiss government is now coming under strong pressure to negotiate a better agreement with Brussels, the SZ reported.

After turning down EU membership in 1992, the Swiss voted in 2000 for a range of bilateral accords with the bloc.

Brussels has made no secret of its growing impatience to pin down a "framework accord" to pull together various bilateral agreements touching on access to the single market and fine-tuning applicable Swiss and EU laws.

Since 2008, the EU has insisted Switzerland must sign a framework agreement before concluding any new bilateral deals with the bloc.

Parmelin had to go into quarantine before Christmas after visiting London to sign an agreement which secures reciprocal, facilitated market access for service providers from Switzerland and Britain from January. 
Parmelin takes over as president from Simonetta Sommaruga on Friday.

(With AFP inputs)

Incoming Swiss president Guy Parmelin said on Sunday that post-Brexit trade deal struck between UK and the European Union (EU) was "good news" for the entire world.

Incoming Swiss president Guy Parmelin said on Sunday that post-Brexit trade deal struck between UK and the European Union (EU) was "good news" for the entire world. Switzerland itself is not a member of EU but is a banking powerhouse and has a relationship that guarantees market access. Parmelin is currently economy minister and set to take over the annually rotating presidency on Friday. "It is good news for the whole world that an agreement has been reached. For Switzerland too," he told the Sonntags Zeitung newspaper. UK and European Union were able to strike a post-Brexit deal on December 24 after 10 months of heavy negotiation. The deal will soften economic shock of UK exiting European common market on December 31 Parmelin did not comment on what the deal might mean for Switzerland's own framework agreement negotiations with the EU. "We are now waiting for the text and will analyse the whole situation," he said. Experts believe that the Swiss government is now coming under strong pressure to negotiate a better agreement with Brussels, the SZ reported. After turning down EU membership in 1992, the Swiss voted in 2000 for a range of bilateral accords with the bloc. Brussels has made no secret of its growing impatience to pin down a "framework accord" to pull together various bilateral agreements touching on access to the single market and fine-tuning applicable Swiss and EU laws. Since 2008, the EU has insisted Switzerland must sign a framework agreement before concluding any new bilateral deals with the bloc. Parmelin had to go into quarantine before Christmas after visiting London to sign an agreement which secures reciprocal, facilitated market access for service providers from Switzerland and Britain from January. Parmelin takes over as president from Simonetta Sommaruga on Friday. (With AFP inputs)

Incoming Swiss president calls post-Brexit deal 'good news for whole world

Britain's 'Iron lady'&nbsp;Margaret Thatcher believed the European Commission's plan for a single currency in the European Union was a "rush of blood to the head".

The thoughts of Thatcher were revealed after the Irish government released 30-years-old archives in which the Tory leader's thoughts on the 'politburo' in Brussels has been recorded during a conversation with her Irish government.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-sold-out-fish-stocks-in-new-brexit-deal-claim-british-fishermen-352636">Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen</a>

"In talking of a single currency, [Jacques] Delors must have had a rush of blood to the head," she said blasting at the then-European Union leader Jacques Delors. "We are not going to have a single currency."

The archives released date back to June 1990 when Thatcher was in conversation with&nbsp;Irish taoiseach Charles Haughey, where she described Delors as a "mere appointee".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/full-post-brexit-text-goes-beyond-a-canada-style-deal-report-says-352461" hreflang="en">Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says</a>

As per the papers, Thatcher wanted the European Commission to turn into a&nbsp;professional civil service with the aim of providing service to the ministers representing the governments, rather than taking initiatives.

She was apparently also against the European Court allegedly giving more power to the commission. "The days of appointed commissioners must be numbered. We must give power to the council of ministers," she said. "I am not handing over authority to a non-elected bureaucracy … I am getting completely fed up with the European community trying to tie us up with bureaucratic regulations."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/brexit-is-finally-done-but-it-already-seems-out-of-date-352414" hreflang="en">Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date</a>

The Irish counterpart, Haughey, also alleged the commission of contacting the Irish local authorities and inviting them for a 'talk' in Brussels. "They are going behind the back of the government," he alleged.

Thatcher admitted that the commission was needed "to start off" but also believed that it has now become a "totally non-democratic power structure" and strongly opposed the idea of the&nbsp;European police force.

She had also made clear that she would not accept a&nbsp;central bank of the then 12 EU member states and would rather work with&nbsp;deutschmark to keep inflation down, as the Germans had&nbsp;experience of inflation and still kept its currency like a gold standard.

"They would think of economic growth and jobs and inflation as equal objectives and mix them all up. All we want is an effective gold standard and the deutschmark provides us with that," she said.

Britain's 'Iron lady' Margaret Thatcher believed the European Commission's plan for a single currency in the European Union was a "rush of blood to the head". The thoughts of Thatcher were revealed after the Irish government released 30-years-old archives in which the Tory leader's thoughts on the 'politburo' in Brussels has been recorded during a conversation with her Irish government.

Britain's 'Iron lady' Margaret Thatcher believed the European Commission's plan for a single currency in the European Union was a "rush of blood to the head". The thoughts of Thatcher were revealed after the Irish government released 30-years-old archives in which the Tory leader's thoughts on the 'politburo' in Brussels has been recorded during a conversation with her Irish government. Also read| Johnson sold out fish stocks in new Brexit deal, claim British fishermen "In talking of a single currency, [Jacques] Delors must have had a rush of blood to the head," she said blasting at the then-European Union leader Jacques Delors. "We are not going to have a single currency." The archives released date back to June 1990 when Thatcher was in conversation with Irish taoiseach Charles Haughey, where she described Delors as a "mere appointee". Also read| Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says As per the papers, Thatcher wanted the European Commission to turn into a professional civil service with the aim of providing service to the ministers representing the governments, rather than taking initiatives. She was apparently also against the European Court allegedly giving more power to the commission. "The days of appointed commissioners must be numbered. We must give power to the council of ministers," she said. "I am not handing over authority to a non-elected bureaucracy … I am getting completely fed up with the European community trying to tie us up with bureaucratic regulations." Also read| Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date The Irish counterpart, Haughey, also alleged the commission of contacting the Irish local authorities and inviting them for a 'talk' in Brussels. "They are going behind the back of the government," he alleged. Thatcher admitted that the commission was needed "to start off" but also believed that it has now become a "totally non-democratic power structure" and strongly opposed the idea of the European police force. She had also made clear that she would not accept a central bank of the then 12 EU member states and would rather work with deutschmark to keep inflation down, as the Germans had experience of inflation and still kept its currency like a gold standard. "They would think of economic growth and jobs and inflation as equal objectives and mix them all up. All we want is an effective gold standard and the deutschmark provides us with that," she said.

Margaret Thatcher said no to Euro as 'one currency', Irish archives reveal

The post-Brexit trade deal reached by the United Kingdom and the European Union goes beyond the EU's so-called "Canada-style" trade accord, a media report has said.

The BBC said on Friday, citing what it said was a full copy of the accord, that the 1,246-page document includes about 800 pages of annexes and footnotes.

It added that the pages of legal text will determine every aspect of trade between the UK and the EU.

Britain clinched a narrow Brexit trade deal with the European Union on Thursday, just seven days before it exits one of the world's biggest trading blocs.

The deal will preserve Britain's zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the bloc's single market of 450 million consumers, but will not prevent economic pain and disruption for the UK or for EU member states.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday had described the last-minute agreement as a "jumbo" free trade deal along the lines of that between the EU and Canada, and urged Britain to move on from the divisions caused by the 2016 Brexit referendum.

The BBC report added that at first look, the full post-Brexit text went beyond a so-called "Canada-style" deal.

One annex revealed a late compromise on electric cars.&nbsp;

The EU had sought to offer tariff-free access only to those British cars made mostly with European parts. That will now be phased in over six years, but is less generous than the UK had requested, the BBC said.

There is a clear commitment not to lower standards on the environment, workers' rights and climate change from those that currently exist and mechanisms to enforce them, the BBC reported.

However, it added that there is also a mutual right to "rebalance" the agreement if there are "significant divergences" in the future capable of "impacting trade".

Similarly, the restrictions compensation for unfair subsidies to companies "do not apply" in situations such as natural disasters, the BBC said. That will exempt the EU's large current pandemic support package for aviation, aerospace, climate change and electric cars.

The UK formally left the EU on January 31 but has since been in a transition period under which rules on trade, travel and business remained unchanged until the end of this year. 
The British parliament will debate and vote on the deal on December 30, just one day before the transition period lapses.

(with inputs)

The post-Brexit trade deal reached by the United Kingdom and the European Union goes beyond the EU's so-called "Canada-style" trade accord, a media report has said.

The post-Brexit trade deal reached by the United Kingdom and the European Union goes beyond the EU's so-called "Canada-style" trade accord, a media report has said. The BBC said on Friday, citing what it said was a full copy of the accord, that the 1,246-page document includes about 800 pages of annexes and footnotes. It added that the pages of legal text will determine every aspect of trade between the UK and the EU. Britain clinched a narrow Brexit trade deal with the European Union on Thursday, just seven days before it exits one of the world's biggest trading blocs. The deal will preserve Britain's zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the bloc's single market of 450 million consumers, but will not prevent economic pain and disruption for the UK or for EU member states. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday had described the last-minute agreement as a "jumbo" free trade deal along the lines of that between the EU and Canada, and urged Britain to move on from the divisions caused by the 2016 Brexit referendum. The BBC report added that at first look, the full post-Brexit text went beyond a so-called "Canada-style" deal. One annex revealed a late compromise on electric cars. The EU had sought to offer tariff-free access only to those British cars made mostly with European parts. That will now be phased in over six years, but is less generous than the UK had requested, the BBC said. There is a clear commitment not to lower standards on the environment, workers' rights and climate change from those that currently exist and mechanisms to enforce them, the BBC reported. However, it added that there is also a mutual right to "rebalance" the agreement if there are "significant divergences" in the future capable of "impacting trade". Similarly, the restrictions compensation for unfair subsidies to companies "do not apply" in situations such as natural disasters, the BBC said. That will exempt the EU's large current pandemic support package for aviation, aerospace, climate change and electric cars. The UK formally left the EU on January 31 but has since been in a transition period under which rules on trade, travel and business remained unchanged until the end of this year. The British parliament will debate and vote on the deal on December 30, just one day before the transition period lapses. (with inputs)

Full post-Brexit text goes beyond a 'Canada-style' deal, report says

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson hailed what he called "the biggest trade deal yet" with the European Union on Thursday (December 24), saying Britain had taken back control of its laws, borders, and fishing waters.

Brexit trade deal sealed: EU and UK clinch narrow accord

After 10 months of deadlock, Britain and the European Union on Thursday finally finalised the Brexit trade deal.

Both EU and UK expressed optimism on the deal as Britain ends its half a century partnership with the European association.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Let's take a look at how other European countries reacted on the deal.&nbsp;

<h2>France&nbsp;</h2>

In a tweet, French President Emmanuel Macron said that "Europe's unity and firmness paid off". He also said that the deal will protect Europe's "citizens, fishermen and producers". &nbsp;

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L’unité et la fermeté européennes ont payé. L’accord avec le Royaume-Uni est essentiel pour protéger nos citoyens, nos pêcheurs, nos producteurs. Nous nous assurerons que c’est bien le cas. L’Europe avance et peut regarder vers l’avenir, unie, souveraine et forte.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1342137139354546182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Germany</h2>

German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed confidence that the agreement represents a "good outcome" that Germany would be able to back.

<h2>Spain</h2>

Spanish Prime Minister also welcomed the deal on Twitter but said that the UK and Spain should continue discussions on the status of Gibraltar.

<h2>Italy&nbsp;</h2>

"Good news: deal between the EU and the UK has been agreed," Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte wrote in a tweet, adding that the interests of Europeans have been "guaranteed".

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Good news: deal between the EU and the UK has been agreed. Interests and rights of European businesses and citizens guaranteed. The UK will be a central partner and ally for the EU and Italy.
— Giuseppe Conte (@GiuseppeConteIT) <a href="https://twitter.com/GiuseppeConteIT/status/1342128966425952256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"The UK will be a central partner and ally for the EU and Italy."

<h2>Northern Ireland&nbsp;</h2>

"This is the start of a new era in the relationship between the UK and the EU and in Northern Ireland we will want to maximise the opportunities the new arrangements provide for our local economy,” said First Minister Arlene Foster.

<h2>Scotland</h2>

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon clearly said that Brexit is happening against "Scotland's will" and said that it's time that the country charts its "own future as an independent European nation".

"Before the spin starts, it’s worth remembering that Brexit is happening against Scotland’s will. And there is no deal that will ever make up for what Brexit takes away from us. It’s time to chart our own future as an independent, European nation," said Sturgeon.&nbsp;

After 10 months of deadlock, Britain and the European Union on Thursday finally finalised the Brexit trade deal. Both EU and UK expressed optimism on the deal as Britain ends its half a century partnership with the European association.

After 10 months of deadlock, Britain and the European Union on Thursday finally finalised the Brexit trade deal. Both EU and UK expressed optimism on the deal as Britain ends its half a century partnership with the European association. Watch | Let's take a look at how other European countries reacted on the deal. France In a tweet, French President Emmanuel Macron said that "Europe's unity and firmness paid off". He also said that the deal will protect Europe's "citizens, fishermen and producers". L’unité et la fermeté européennes ont payé. L’accord avec le Royaume-Uni est essentiel pour protéger nos citoyens, nos pêcheurs, nos producteurs. Nous nous assurerons que c’est bien le cas. L’Europe avance et peut regarder vers l’avenir, unie, souveraine et forte. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) December 24, 2020 × Germany German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed confidence that the agreement represents a "good outcome" that Germany would be able to back. Spain Spanish Prime Minister also welcomed the deal on Twitter but said that the UK and Spain should continue discussions on the status of Gibraltar. Italy "Good news: deal between the EU and the UK has been agreed," Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte wrote in a tweet, adding that the interests of Europeans have been "guaranteed". Good news: deal between the EU and the UK has been agreed. Interests and rights of European businesses and citizens guaranteed. The UK will be a central partner and ally for the EU and Italy. — Giuseppe Conte (@GiuseppeConteIT) December 24, 2020 × "The UK will be a central partner and ally for the EU and Italy." Northern Ireland "This is the start of a new era in the relationship between the UK and the EU and in Northern Ireland we will want to maximise the opportunities the new arrangements provide for our local economy,” said First Minister Arlene Foster. Scotland Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon clearly said that Brexit is happening against "Scotland's will" and said that it's time that the country charts its "own future as an independent European nation". "Before the spin starts, it’s worth remembering that Brexit is happening against Scotland’s will. And there is no deal that will ever make up for what Brexit takes away from us. It’s time to chart our own future as an independent, European nation," said Sturgeon.

Scotland lone exception as European nations hail Brexit deal

Britain deployed additional military personnel to the port of&nbsp;Dover&nbsp;on Friday to help clear the queues of lorries following the resumption of cross-channel travel for drivers who test negative for COVID-19.

Several thousand cargo trucks have been trapped for days around the southern English port of&nbsp;Dover&nbsp;since France closed borders with the UK in a bid to stop the spread of a new coronavirus strain.

Hundreds of lorries arrived at the French port of Calais on Friday as authorities scrambled to ease a bottleneck in Britain, where thousands of drivers have been stuck for days after France imposed tougher coronavirus rules.

Traffic was moving only slowly through the port on Friday, a public holiday. Most trucks were still parked further up the motorway as drivers waited to take tests before being allowed to board the cross-channel ferries.

British transport minister Grant Shapps said on Twitter on Friday more than 10,000 coronavirus tests had been carried out on lorry drivers and only 24 of them had tested positive.

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Update on Kent lorry situation: Over 10,000 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronavirus</a> tests now carried out. Just 24 positive (0.24%). 
 
A huge thank you for the tireless efforts of our troops, police, civilian testers, council planners &amp; port &amp; ferry workers for giving up their Xmas to get people home.
— Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) <a href="https://twitter.com/grantshapps/status/1342466329144659969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Soldiers were checking vehicles and drivers' documents at the entrance to the port and French officials, in&nbsp;Dover&nbsp;to help clear the backlog, were seen administering a nasal swab to a driver.

An additional 800 British troops have now been deployed to the port, on top of the 300 sent initially, British media reported.

The French and British governments agreed to end the blockade late on Tuesday but the long lines of trucks are expected to take days to clear, British authorities have said.

More than 700 hauliers have been cleared for departure since France reopened its border, the British Broadcasting Corporation reported.

Britain deployed additional military personnel to the port of Dover on Friday to help clear the queues of lorries following the resumption of cross-channel travel for drivers who test negative for COVID-19.

Britain deployed additional military personnel to the port of Dover on Friday to help clear the queues of lorries following the resumption of cross-channel travel for drivers who test negative for COVID-19. Several thousand cargo trucks have been trapped for days around the southern English port of Dover since France closed borders with the UK in a bid to stop the spread of a new coronavirus strain. Hundreds of lorries arrived at the French port of Calais on Friday as authorities scrambled to ease a bottleneck in Britain, where thousands of drivers have been stuck for days after France imposed tougher coronavirus rules. Traffic was moving only slowly through the port on Friday, a public holiday. Most trucks were still parked further up the motorway as drivers waited to take tests before being allowed to board the cross-channel ferries. British transport minister Grant Shapps said on Twitter on Friday more than 10,000 coronavirus tests had been carried out on lorry drivers and only 24 of them had tested positive. Update on Kent lorry situation: Over 10,000 #Coronavirus tests now carried out. Just 24 positive (0.24%). A huge thank you for the tireless efforts of our troops, police, civilian testers, council planners & port & ferry workers for giving up their Xmas to get people home. — Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) December 25, 2020 × Soldiers were checking vehicles and drivers' documents at the entrance to the port and French officials, in Dover to help clear the backlog, were seen administering a nasal swab to a driver. An additional 800 British troops have now been deployed to the port, on top of the 300 sent initially, British media reported. The French and British governments agreed to end the blockade late on Tuesday but the long lines of trucks are expected to take days to clear, British authorities have said. More than 700 hauliers have been cleared for departure since France reopened its border, the British Broadcasting Corporation reported.

UK deploys more troops at Dover port to ease channel logjam by truckers

Negotiations on finalising a Brexit trade deal has been completed, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen describing the agreement as fair, balanced and right.

'It was worth fighting for this Brexit deal', says EU Commission Chief

"The deal is done," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted, declaring that the UK would remain Europe's ally and number one market.

'The trade deal is done': EU and UK clinch narrow Brexit accord

France on Thursday announced measures to support fishermen after European Union and UK reached a post-Brexit trade agreement. The aid includes up to 30,000 euros in individual aid. UK And EU haggled hard on access to Britain's rich fishing waters.

"Fishermen and wholesalers will be able to benefit from a flat-rate aid of up to 30,000 euros depending on their dependence on products caught in British waters," the French fisheries ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The government will soon present its complete plan to support French fishermen," Minister Annick Girardin said.

The aid plan provides compensation for a limited period for a part of turnover losses that companies dependent on British waters would face.

Other measures include investment aid under a recovery plan and "fleet exit plan" will be available for vessels dependent on British waters that want to stop activity.

Britain had insisted it wanted to take back full control of its waters while EU coastal states sought guarantees their fleets could keep fishing in UK waters.&nbsp;

The two sides reached a compromise that will see European boats gradually relinquish 25 percent of their current quotas during a five-and-a-half year transition period.&nbsp;

After that there will be annual negotiations on the amount of fish EU vessels can take from British waters -- and if Brussels is not satisfied it can impose economic measures against the UK.

(With AFP inputs)

France on Thursday announced measures to support fishermen after European Union and UK reached a post-Brexit trade agreement. The aid includes up to 30,000 euros in individual aid.

France on Thursday announced measures to support fishermen after European Union and UK reached a post-Brexit trade agreement. The aid includes up to 30,000 euros in individual aid. UK And EU haggled hard on access to Britain's rich fishing waters. "Fishermen and wholesalers will be able to benefit from a flat-rate aid of up to 30,000 euros depending on their dependence on products caught in British waters," the French fisheries ministry said in a statement. "The government will soon present its complete plan to support French fishermen," Minister Annick Girardin said. The aid plan provides compensation for a limited period for a part of turnover losses that companies dependent on British waters would face. Other measures include investment aid under a recovery plan and "fleet exit plan" will be available for vessels dependent on British waters that want to stop activity. Britain had insisted it wanted to take back full control of its waters while EU coastal states sought guarantees their fleets could keep fishing in UK waters. The two sides reached a compromise that will see European boats gradually relinquish 25 percent of their current quotas during a five-and-a-half year transition period. After that there will be annual negotiations on the amount of fish EU vessels can take from British waters -- and if Brussels is not satisfied it can impose economic measures against the UK. (With AFP inputs)

After Brexit, France offers aid to fishermen

LONDON — It took 11 grueling months for negotiators from Britain and the European Union to hammer out the terms of a post-Brexit trade deal. But in many respects, the deal is already 4 1/2 years out of date.

The world has changed radically since June 2016, when a narrow majority of people in Britain voted to leave the European Union, tempted by an argument that the country would prosper by throwing off the bureaucratic shackles of Brussels.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/it-was-worth-fighting-for-this-brexit-deal-says-eu-commission-chief-352201/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In those days, the vision of an agile, independent Britain — free to develop profitable, next-generation industries like artificial intelligence and cut its own trade deals with the United States, China and others — was an alluring sales pitch. The buccaneers of Brexit promised to create a “Global Britain.”

That was before the anti-immigrant and anti-globalist-fueled rise of President Donald Trump and other populist leaders who erected barriers to trade and immigration and countries turned inward. It was before the coronavirus pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of far-flung supply chains, fueling calls to bring strategic industries back home and throwing globalism into retreat.

In the anxious dawn of 2021, buccaneers are out of fashion. The world is now dominated by three gargantuan economic blocs — the United States, China and the European Union. Britain has finalized its divorce from one of them, leaving it isolated at a time when the path forward seems more perilous than it once did.

“The whole ‘Global Britain’ model doesn’t reflect the more protectionist, nationalistic world we’re living in,” said Thomas Wright, the director of the Center on the United States and Europe at the Brookings Institution. “Becoming a global free trader in 2016 is a bit like turning into a communist in 1989. It's bad timing.”

As Prime Minister Boris Johnson leads Britain into a post-Brexit future, he also risks being out of step politically.

The Brexit agreement with the European Union comes at the very moment that President-elect Joe Biden is replacing Trump’s “America First” credo with a message of mending alliances and collaborating to tackle issues like global health and climate change.

While the deal averts tariffs and quotas on goods crossing the English Channel, it is at heart about disentangling neighbors who had become deeply integrated over four decades. That estrangement, analysts say, is bound to weaken ties between the two sides in other areas, like security and diplomacy.

“Biden wants to see alliances and multilateralism and cooperation, and Brexit runs completely against that,” said Mujtaba Rahman, an analyst at the Eurasia Group, a political risk consultancy. “Brexit is graduating into a more difficult political context where it is running against the grain.”

Trump cheered Britain’s drive to sever itself from the European Union. As a reward, he promised to negotiate a trade agreement with Johnson, whom he cultivated personally. But Biden opposed Brexit and has ruled out negotiating new trade agreements until the United States improves its own competitive position. That nullifies one of the prime selling points of Brexit.

Johnson has pivoted by highlighting other ways that Britain can work with the United States. It is increasing military spending to reinforce NATO and playing host at a U.N. climate summit next year, which will give Biden a platform to reengage the United States in the climate challenge.

Britain has also promoted itself as a champion of democratic values in places like Hong Kong, standing alongside the United States. But in a less hospitable world, it may not find many allies for that kind of work.

“Who are the obvious partners for them?” Wright said. “Four years ago, they could have said Brazil, but Brazil is now run by Bolsonaro,” he added, referring to the populist president, Jair Bolsonaro.

There are also limits to how muscular a partner Britain can be in the confrontation with autocratic states like China and Russia. Its changing relationship with China illustrates its diminished stature.

Britain once hoped its free-agent status would allow it to develop a thriving commercial relationship with Beijing, unencumbered by the baggage of the European Union or the United States. But under pressure from Trump on the role of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei in 5G networks, Britain has largely abandoned its cultivation of China, falling in line with the United States’ more antagonistic position.

The European Union, by contrast, has continued to negotiate a landmark investment treaty with China, a goal of the Germans, who want greater control over the Chinese operations of their companies. Last-minute objections raised by aides to Biden are giving the Europeans second thoughts, but Germany’s drive to finish the deal before the end of the year attests to its more confident position.

In 2016, Brexit was embraced by three distinct factions in British politics, said Matthias Matthijs, a professor of international political economy at Johns Hopkins University: right-wing anti-immigration figures like Nigel Farage; orthodox free traders in the Conservative Party; and some on the left, who hoped the move would free up money to subsidize factory jobs in the country’s industrial north and, in any event, regarded the European Union as a bankers’ club that Britain was well out of.

“It’s not clear that signing this EU trade deal will give them more freedom to do that,” Matthijs said of the subsidies, noting that Britain had agreed to abide by constraints on how much state aid it can dole out to industry.

The paradox, he said, is that Britain is casting off from the European Union at a time when its two largest economies, Germany and France, are embracing some of the tenets of industrial policy that inspired Brexit.

The pandemic has forced Brussels to reconsider policies it once shunned — initially in the form of a $913 billion coronavirus rescue package — that bring it closer to the ideas pushed by Brexiteers, like Johnson’s former chief adviser, Dominic Cummings. He was an architect of a plan to use public money to “level up” Britain’s economically disadvantaged north with its more prosperous south.

Liberating itself from the constraints of Brussels had been one of the biggest attractions of Brexit. Instead, Britain faces a much larger competitor that seems bent, like Britain itself, on transforming its economies with digital and “green” technology — and more open to using state aid to do so.

Another irony of Brexit is that Europe, alienated by the unilateral policies of Trump, has begun echoing some of the language used by Brexiteers in 2016. President Emmanuel Macron of France and others have spoken of the need for “European sovereignty” in the face of a less reliable United States. Johnson made reclaiming British sovereignty the leitmotif of his negotiations with Brussels.

Britain still has indisputable advantages as it charts a new course. Despite being devastated by the pandemic, its economy is flexible and resilient, at least relative to those on the European continent. It was the first Western country to approve a virus vaccine, while the European Union has been bogged down by the need for its members to move together.

Matthijs predicted that Britain’s economy would snap back faster after the pandemic than those of Germany or France, which he said the Brexiteers would attribute to the freedom gained by shaking loose of Brussels.

Britain’s independence also affords it the chance to be experimental in its relations with other countries. Wright, for example, said the Biden administration might be interested in negotiating a different kind of economic understanding with Britain than an old-fashioned free trade agreement.

“They’re well positioned to be the guinea pig for this,” he said.

Britain, after all, just negotiated a deal unique in the annals of trade diplomacy — one that separates, rather than brings together, partners. Its ability to get that done, analysts said, is a hopeful sign for its ability to reshape itself yet again.

Nevertheless, “the world of June 2016 is not the world of today,” Wright said. “They know that as well, deep down.”

LONDON — It took 11 grueling months for negotiators from Britain and the European Union to hammer out the terms of a post-Brexit trade deal. But in many respects, the deal is already 4 1/2 years out of date.

LONDON — It took 11 grueling months for negotiators from Britain and the European Union to hammer out the terms of a post-Brexit trade deal. But in many respects, the deal is already 4 1/2 years out of date. The world has changed radically since June 2016, when a narrow majority of people in Britain voted to leave the European Union, tempted by an argument that the country would prosper by throwing off the bureaucratic shackles of Brussels. Watch | In those days, the vision of an agile, independent Britain — free to develop profitable, next-generation industries like artificial intelligence and cut its own trade deals with the United States, China and others — was an alluring sales pitch. The buccaneers of Brexit promised to create a “Global Britain.” That was before the anti-immigrant and anti-globalist-fueled rise of President Donald Trump and other populist leaders who erected barriers to trade and immigration and countries turned inward. It was before the coronavirus pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of far-flung supply chains, fueling calls to bring strategic industries back home and throwing globalism into retreat. In the anxious dawn of 2021, buccaneers are out of fashion. The world is now dominated by three gargantuan economic blocs — the United States, China and the European Union. Britain has finalized its divorce from one of them, leaving it isolated at a time when the path forward seems more perilous than it once did. “The whole ‘Global Britain’ model doesn’t reflect the more protectionist, nationalistic world we’re living in,” said Thomas Wright, the director of the Center on the United States and Europe at the Brookings Institution. “Becoming a global free trader in 2016 is a bit like turning into a communist in 1989. It's bad timing.” As Prime Minister Boris Johnson leads Britain into a post-Brexit future, he also risks being out of step politically. The Brexit agreement with the European Union comes at the very moment that President-elect Joe Biden is replacing Trump’s “America First” credo with a message of mending alliances and collaborating to tackle issues like global health and climate change. While the deal averts tariffs and quotas on goods crossing the English Channel, it is at heart about disentangling neighbors who had become deeply integrated over four decades. That estrangement, analysts say, is bound to weaken ties between the two sides in other areas, like security and diplomacy. “Biden wants to see alliances and multilateralism and cooperation, and Brexit runs completely against that,” said Mujtaba Rahman, an analyst at the Eurasia Group, a political risk consultancy. “Brexit is graduating into a more difficult political context where it is running against the grain.” Trump cheered Britain’s drive to sever itself from the European Union. As a reward, he promised to negotiate a trade agreement with Johnson, whom he cultivated personally. But Biden opposed Brexit and has ruled out negotiating new trade agreements until the United States improves its own competitive position. That nullifies one of the prime selling points of Brexit. Johnson has pivoted by highlighting other ways that Britain can work with the United States. It is increasing military spending to reinforce NATO and playing host at a U.N. climate summit next year, which will give Biden a platform to reengage the United States in the climate challenge. Britain has also promoted itself as a champion of democratic values in places like Hong Kong, standing alongside the United States. But in a less hospitable world, it may not find many allies for that kind of work. “Who are the obvious partners for them?” Wright said. “Four years ago, they could have said Brazil, but Brazil is now run by Bolsonaro,” he added, referring to the populist president, Jair Bolsonaro. There are also limits to how muscular a partner Britain can be in the confrontation with autocratic states like China and Russia. Its changing relationship with China illustrates its diminished stature. Britain once hoped its free-agent status would allow it to develop a thriving commercial relationship with Beijing, unencumbered by the baggage of the European Union or the United States. But under pressure from Trump on the role of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei in 5G networks, Britain has largely abandoned its cultivation of China, falling in line with the United States’ more antagonistic position. The European Union, by contrast, has continued to negotiate a landmark investment treaty with China, a goal of the Germans, who want greater control over the Chinese operations of their companies. Last-minute objections raised by aides to Biden are giving the Europeans second thoughts, but Germany’s drive to finish the deal before the end of the year attests to its more confident position. In 2016, Brexit was embraced by three distinct factions in British politics, said Matthias Matthijs, a professor of international political economy at Johns Hopkins University: right-wing anti-immigration figures like Nigel Farage; orthodox free traders in the Conservative Party; and some on the left, who hoped the move would free up money to subsidize factory jobs in the country’s industrial north and, in any event, regarded the European Union as a bankers’ club that Britain was well out of. “It’s not clear that signing this EU trade deal will give them more freedom to do that,” Matthijs said of the subsidies, noting that Britain had agreed to abide by constraints on how much state aid it can dole out to industry. The paradox, he said, is that Britain is casting off from the European Union at a time when its two largest economies, Germany and France, are embracing some of the tenets of industrial policy that inspired Brexit. The pandemic has forced Brussels to reconsider policies it once shunned — initially in the form of a $913 billion coronavirus rescue package — that bring it closer to the ideas pushed by Brexiteers, like Johnson’s former chief adviser, Dominic Cummings. He was an architect of a plan to use public money to “level up” Britain’s economically disadvantaged north with its more prosperous south. Liberating itself from the constraints of Brussels had been one of the biggest attractions of Brexit. Instead, Britain faces a much larger competitor that seems bent, like Britain itself, on transforming its economies with digital and “green” technology — and more open to using state aid to do so. Another irony of Brexit is that Europe, alienated by the unilateral policies of Trump, has begun echoing some of the language used by Brexiteers in 2016. President Emmanuel Macron of France and others have spoken of the need for “European sovereignty” in the face of a less reliable United States. Johnson made reclaiming British sovereignty the leitmotif of his negotiations with Brussels. Britain still has indisputable advantages as it charts a new course. Despite being devastated by the pandemic, its economy is flexible and resilient, at least relative to those on the European continent. It was the first Western country to approve a virus vaccine, while the European Union has been bogged down by the need for its members to move together. Matthijs predicted that Britain’s economy would snap back faster after the pandemic than those of Germany or France, which he said the Brexiteers would attribute to the freedom gained by shaking loose of Brussels. Britain’s independence also affords it the chance to be experimental in its relations with other countries. Wright, for example, said the Biden administration might be interested in negotiating a different kind of economic understanding with Britain than an old-fashioned free trade agreement. “They’re well positioned to be the guinea pig for this,” he said. Britain, after all, just negotiated a deal unique in the annals of trade diplomacy — one that separates, rather than brings together, partners. Its ability to get that done, analysts said, is a hopeful sign for its ability to reshape itself yet again. Nevertheless, “the world of June 2016 is not the world of today,” Wright said. “They know that as well, deep down.”

Brexit is finally done, but it already seems out of date

After 11 months of haggling, the UK and EU signed a trade deal for the post-Brexit world. Boris Johnson hailed the deal as the best UK could get. Who stands to gain from this new arrangement? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas:  UK, EU clinch historic post-Brexit trade deal

Britain and the European Union struck a trade deal Thursday, setting the terms of their commercial relations after Britain completes its hard-fought split from the European Union on Dec. 31.

British lawmakers had haggled for years over the divorce, known as Brexit. Britain formally left the European Union on Jan. 31, closing the book on nearly half a century of close ties with Europe, but it continued to follow the bloc’s rules during a transition period intended to give the two sides time to negotiate the trade deal struck this week.

Here are the basic terms of that deal.

It saves Britain from crashing out of the EU

British companies have long been able to move goods to and from the European Union without paying taxes or tariffs. Had the two sides failed to reach a deal before the Dec. 31 deadline, tariffs would have been imposed, raising the price on cars considerably and making it much more difficult for British farmers to sell meat, for example, to the European market.

A no-deal separation also looked likely to create gridlock at British ports and strand trucks on either side of the border.

The new agreement means that Britain avoids onerous tariffs or quotas on goods. But problems at the border could still emerge, with checks increasing and traders having to complete new customs declarations.

And commercial relations face more restrictions. The Office for Budget Responsibility has estimated that gross domestic product in Britain could be 4% lower cumulatively over the next 15 years than it would have been had Britain remained in the European Union. Without a deal, that drop was projected to be even larger.

The agreement was not entirely a surprise. To some commentators, a no-deal Brexit had always looked more like useful leverage for political purposes than a probable outcome of negotiations.

Both sides compromised on fish, a major sticking point

The number of people employed in Britain’s fishing industry has fallen in recent decades, and the British government cast its split from the European Union as a chance to revive the industry by cutting European companies’ access to British waters. Britain originally sought an 80% reduction in the share of fish that European Union boats would be allowed to catch in British waters.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain made significant concessions on that point: The European Union’s fishing quota in British waters will be cut by 25%. But Brussels also compromised: That quota reduction will come into effect over 5 1/2 years, roughly half as long as the European Union originally wanted.

British workers, unhappy not to have exclusive access to fish in British waters, may complain about the deal. But analysts have said that British boats would not have the capacity to catch everything that once went to European boats, even if they had the opportunity to do so.

A no-deal scenario would also have forced tariffs on British fishing companies, making it more difficult for them to sell what they caught to the European Union at competitive prices.

Pro-Brexit lawmakers got many of their wishes

Citizens of European Union member states can look for jobs elsewhere in the bloc, work there without needing special permits and stay after they have left their jobs. But the trade deal ends the free movement of people between Britain and the continent. And it also ended Britain’s involvement in the popular Erasmus student exchange program, which since 1987 saw hundreds of thousands of people each year traveling abroad for study, work experience and apprenticeships.

As both a single market and a customs union, the European Union also agreed to adopt the same rules and regulations so that goods, services and capital can move freely across borders of countries within the bloc. And it agreed to apply the same taxes on goods from outside the bloc, meaning that they can be shipped within the European Union without facing additional tariffs.

But Britain will now leave both the single market and the customs union and can pursue trade deals with other countries. Those points were among the demands made by the most aggressive anti-Europe lawmakers in Britain.

But the European Union won assurances, too

In return for allowing British companies to avoid tariffs, the European Union wanted to ensure that those companies would not gain unfair advantages over their European rivals. The bloc’s leaders worried that Britain would give its own companies a leg up through additional state aid or by lowering environmental or labor standards.

Britain did not want the European Union to be able to automatically impose sanctions if it decided to depart from European rules. So the two sides worked to devise a mechanism by which either could raise a complaint if it had evidence that one had changed regulations in a way that put the other’s businesses at a disadvantage.

As a last resort, if Britain and the European Union could not find common ground in such a scenario, tariffs could be imposed to ensure that one side did not have too big of an advantage.

The British economy faces enormous hurdles

The trade deal was primarily concerned with goods crossing borders. But the British economy is enormously reliant on its services sector, and the deal did not immediately make it easier for British companies to sell financial and other services to its European neighbors.

Once the transition period ends Dec. 31, traders in London will leave the European Union’s single market for financial services.

Both have said they each wanted to be able to evaluate in the future whether the other side’s financial services regulations were equally stringent, and whether they could continue to easily buy and sell services across borders.

But that system will not be as straightforward for banks and traders as the current one.

Britain and the European Union struck a trade deal Thursday, setting the terms of their commercial relations after Britain completes its hard-fought split from the European Union on Dec.

Britain and the European Union struck a trade deal Thursday, setting the terms of their commercial relations after Britain completes its hard-fought split from the European Union on Dec. 31. British lawmakers had haggled for years over the divorce, known as Brexit. Britain formally left the European Union on Jan. 31, closing the book on nearly half a century of close ties with Europe, but it continued to follow the bloc’s rules during a transition period intended to give the two sides time to negotiate the trade deal struck this week. Here are the basic terms of that deal. It saves Britain from crashing out of the EU British companies have long been able to move goods to and from the European Union without paying taxes or tariffs. Had the two sides failed to reach a deal before the Dec. 31 deadline, tariffs would have been imposed, raising the price on cars considerably and making it much more difficult for British farmers to sell meat, for example, to the European market. A no-deal separation also looked likely to create gridlock at British ports and strand trucks on either side of the border. The new agreement means that Britain avoids onerous tariffs or quotas on goods. But problems at the border could still emerge, with checks increasing and traders having to complete new customs declarations. And commercial relations face more restrictions. The Office for Budget Responsibility has estimated that gross domestic product in Britain could be 4% lower cumulatively over the next 15 years than it would have been had Britain remained in the European Union. Without a deal, that drop was projected to be even larger. The agreement was not entirely a surprise. To some commentators, a no-deal Brexit had always looked more like useful leverage for political purposes than a probable outcome of negotiations. Both sides compromised on fish, a major sticking point The number of people employed in Britain’s fishing industry has fallen in recent decades, and the British government cast its split from the European Union as a chance to revive the industry by cutting European companies’ access to British waters. Britain originally sought an 80% reduction in the share of fish that European Union boats would be allowed to catch in British waters. Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain made significant concessions on that point: The European Union’s fishing quota in British waters will be cut by 25%. But Brussels also compromised: That quota reduction will come into effect over 5 1/2 years, roughly half as long as the European Union originally wanted. British workers, unhappy not to have exclusive access to fish in British waters, may complain about the deal. But analysts have said that British boats would not have the capacity to catch everything that once went to European boats, even if they had the opportunity to do so. A no-deal scenario would also have forced tariffs on British fishing companies, making it more difficult for them to sell what they caught to the European Union at competitive prices. Pro-Brexit lawmakers got many of their wishes Citizens of European Union member states can look for jobs elsewhere in the bloc, work there without needing special permits and stay after they have left their jobs. But the trade deal ends the free movement of people between Britain and the continent. And it also ended Britain’s involvement in the popular Erasmus student exchange program, which since 1987 saw hundreds of thousands of people each year traveling abroad for study, work experience and apprenticeships. As both a single market and a customs union, the European Union also agreed to adopt the same rules and regulations so that goods, services and capital can move freely across borders of countries within the bloc. And it agreed to apply the same taxes on goods from outside the bloc, meaning that they can be shipped within the European Union without facing additional tariffs. But Britain will now leave both the single market and the customs union and can pursue trade deals with other countries. Those points were among the demands made by the most aggressive anti-Europe lawmakers in Britain. But the European Union won assurances, too In return for allowing British companies to avoid tariffs, the European Union wanted to ensure that those companies would not gain unfair advantages over their European rivals. The bloc’s leaders worried that Britain would give its own companies a leg up through additional state aid or by lowering environmental or labor standards. Britain did not want the European Union to be able to automatically impose sanctions if it decided to depart from European rules. So the two sides worked to devise a mechanism by which either could raise a complaint if it had evidence that one had changed regulations in a way that put the other’s businesses at a disadvantage. As a last resort, if Britain and the European Union could not find common ground in such a scenario, tariffs could be imposed to ensure that one side did not have too big of an advantage. The British economy faces enormous hurdles The trade deal was primarily concerned with goods crossing borders. But the British economy is enormously reliant on its services sector, and the deal did not immediately make it easier for British companies to sell financial and other services to its European neighbors. Once the transition period ends Dec. 31, traders in London will leave the European Union’s single market for financial services. Both have said they each wanted to be able to evaluate in the future whether the other side’s financial services regulations were equally stringent, and whether they could continue to easily buy and sell services across borders. But that system will not be as straightforward for banks and traders as the current one.

5 takeaways from the post-Brexit trade deal

The European Union and Britain chalked out the final details of a post-Brexit trade deal on Thursday ahead of what negotiators hoped would be a pre-dawn breakthrough.

The two sides are now expected to announce a Christmas Eve trade deal Thursday after ten months of Brexit talks dragged out over yet another late night session.

According to the front pages of several British newspapers, Prime Minister Boris Johnson had emerged victorious in the quest for a pact. In Brussels, however, work continued.

An EU source told AFP that "if all goes well" the two leaders should talk by phone at 0700 GMT to seal the agreement.

While a last-minute deal would avoid the most acrimonious ending to the Brexit divorce, the United Kingdom is heading for a much more distant relationship with its biggest trade partner than almost anyone expected at the time of the 2016 Brexit vote.

Sources in London and Brussels said a deal was close as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a late-night conference call with his Cabinet of senior ministers, and negotiators in Brussels pored over reams of legal trade texts.

But the leaders were not able to announce a deal before Christmas Eve arrived, as they had hoped.&nbsp;

"Brexit work will continue throughout the night," European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer tweeted just after 1.00 am (0000 GMT).

"Grabbing some sleep is recommended to all Brexit-watchers at this point. It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning."

"It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning," European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer tweeted just after midnight, advising reporters and diplomats alike to grab some sleep as the finishing touches were applied.

Several hours earlier, European officials had confidently told journalists: "We are in the final phase."

There was no official confirmation of a deal but a news conference was expected in London on Thursday morning - just seven days before the UK turns its back on the EU's single market and customs union at 2300 GMT on December 31.

A French government source said UK negotiators had made "huge concessions" on fisheries -- the key sticking point as the clock ticks down to Britain's departure.&nbsp;

The last-gasp deal, if it is reached, would come just days before Britain is set to leave the EU's single market at the end of the year, sparing the two sides from trade tariffs.

The United Kingdom formally left the EU on January 31 but has since been in a transition period under which rules on trade, travel and business remained unchanged. But from the end of this year, it will be treated by Brussels as a third country.

If they have struck a zero-tariff and zero-quota deal, it would safeguard nearly $1 trillion in annual trade, and support the peace in Northern Ireland - a priority for US President-elect Joe Biden, who had warned Johnson that he must uphold the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement.

Even with an accord, some disruption is certain from January 1 when Britain ends its often fraught 48-year relationship with a Franco-German-led project that sought to bind the ruined nations of post-World War Two Europe together as a global power.

The focus in talks had shifted since Monday to cross-Channel calls between Johnson and von der Leyen after exhausted officials failed to close the gap on how to share access to UK fishing waters.

The remaining differences between the two camps were narrow but deep, in particular over fishing, with EU crews facing a dramatic cut in their catch from British waters.

Failure to reach a deal would mean tariffs on cross-Channel trade in food and goods, exacerbating the economic shock of a return to a customs border after 47 years of integration.

The last-gasp deal, if it is confirmed, would come just days before Britain is set to leave the EU's single market at the end of the year, sparing the two sides from trade tariffs.

A deal -- which would still need to be translated and tidied up by lawyers -- could be approved provisionally before the cut-off date and then scrutinised by EU lawmakers in the new year to avoid a cliff-edge.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

The European Union and Britain chalked out the final details of a post-Brexit trade deal on Thursday ahead of what negotiators hoped would be a pre-dawn breakthrough.

The European Union and Britain chalked out the final details of a post-Brexit trade deal on Thursday ahead of what negotiators hoped would be a pre-dawn breakthrough. The two sides are now expected to announce a Christmas Eve trade deal Thursday after ten months of Brexit talks dragged out over yet another late night session. According to the front pages of several British newspapers, Prime Minister Boris Johnson had emerged victorious in the quest for a pact. In Brussels, however, work continued. An EU source told AFP that "if all goes well" the two leaders should talk by phone at 0700 GMT to seal the agreement. While a last-minute deal would avoid the most acrimonious ending to the Brexit divorce, the United Kingdom is heading for a much more distant relationship with its biggest trade partner than almost anyone expected at the time of the 2016 Brexit vote. Sources in London and Brussels said a deal was close as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a late-night conference call with his Cabinet of senior ministers, and negotiators in Brussels pored over reams of legal trade texts. But the leaders were not able to announce a deal before Christmas Eve arrived, as they had hoped. "Brexit work will continue throughout the night," European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer tweeted just after 1.00 am (0000 GMT). "Grabbing some sleep is recommended to all Brexit-watchers at this point. It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning." "It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning," European Commission spokesman Eric Mamer tweeted just after midnight, advising reporters and diplomats alike to grab some sleep as the finishing touches were applied. Several hours earlier, European officials had confidently told journalists: "We are in the final phase." There was no official confirmation of a deal but a news conference was expected in London on Thursday morning - just seven days before the UK turns its back on the EU's single market and customs union at 2300 GMT on December 31. A French government source said UK negotiators had made "huge concessions" on fisheries -- the key sticking point as the clock ticks down to Britain's departure. The last-gasp deal, if it is reached, would come just days before Britain is set to leave the EU's single market at the end of the year, sparing the two sides from trade tariffs. The United Kingdom formally left the EU on January 31 but has since been in a transition period under which rules on trade, travel and business remained unchanged. But from the end of this year, it will be treated by Brussels as a third country. If they have struck a zero-tariff and zero-quota deal, it would safeguard nearly $1 trillion in annual trade, and support the peace in Northern Ireland - a priority for US President-elect Joe Biden, who had warned Johnson that he must uphold the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement. Even with an accord, some disruption is certain from January 1 when Britain ends its often fraught 48-year relationship with a Franco-German-led project that sought to bind the ruined nations of post-World War Two Europe together as a global power. The focus in talks had shifted since Monday to cross-Channel calls between Johnson and von der Leyen after exhausted officials failed to close the gap on how to share access to UK fishing waters. The remaining differences between the two camps were narrow but deep, in particular over fishing, with EU crews facing a dramatic cut in their catch from British waters. Failure to reach a deal would mean tariffs on cross-Channel trade in food and goods, exacerbating the economic shock of a return to a customs border after 47 years of integration. The last-gasp deal, if it is confirmed, would come just days before Britain is set to leave the EU's single market at the end of the year, sparing the two sides from trade tariffs. A deal -- which would still need to be translated and tidied up by lawyers -- could be approved provisionally before the cut-off date and then scrutinised by EU lawmakers in the new year to avoid a cliff-edge. (with inputs from agencies)

A pre-dawn breakthrough? EU and UK poised to announce Brexit trade deal

After the UK clinched the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deal-is-done-uk-clinches-brexit-agreement-with-eu-ahead-of-december-31-deadline-352125">Brexit </a>deal with the European Union, British PM Boris Johnson said that "We have&nbsp;taken back control of our laws and our destiny."

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-uk-clinches-brexit-agreement-with-eu-ahead-of-deadline-352149/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

PM Johnson said the UK and EU negotiators have reached "a comprehensive, Canada-style free trade deal".

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The deal is done. <a href="https://t.co/zzhvxOSeWz">pic.twitter.com/zzhvxOSeWz</a>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1342123159181516802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"We will be your ally, your supporter, your number one market - this country will remain culturally, historically, geologically attached to Europe," PM Johnson said as he sealed the Brexit agreement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/chief-characters-in-britains-brexit-saga-277805">In Pics: Chief characters in Britain's years-long Brexit saga</a>

Johnson added that post-Brexit trade agreement is a "a good deal for the whole of Europe".

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said that she was "confident" the Brexit deal was a "good outcome".

"We will quickly be able to determine whether Germany can support today's result of the negotiations," Merkel said, adding,"I am very confident that we have a good result."

Former British prime ministers David Cameron and Theresa May who had to resign over the Brexit logjam called it a welcome development "Trade deal is very welcome," Cameron said while stating that "good to end a difficult year with some positive news".

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It's good to end a difficult year with some positive news. Trade deal is very welcome - and a vital step in building a new relationship with the EU as friends, neighbours and partners. Many congratulations to the UK negotiating team.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) <a href="https://twitter.com/David_Cameron/status/1342126305320562688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Very welcome news that the UK &amp; EU have reached agreement on the terms of a deal – one that provides confidence to business and helps keep trade flowing," former PM May said.

Amid the Brexit celebrations in the UK, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was time for Scotland to be "an independent, European nation".

"Before the spin starts, it's worth remembering that Brexit is happening against Scotland's will," Sturgeon said&nbsp;while asserting that "there is no deal that will ever make up for what Brexit takes away from us."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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There will be lots of focus - rightly - on the economic costs of Brexit. But ending UK participation in Erasmus - an initiative that has expanded opportunities and horizons for so many young people - is cultural vandalism by the UK government. <a href="https://t.co/sOxpcCWq5z">https://t.co/sOxpcCWq5z</a>
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) <a href="https://twitter.com/NicolaSturgeon/status/1342135543652614144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin hailed the Brexit deal saying: "While we will miss the UK from the European Union, the fact that a deal is now in place means we can focus on how we manage good relationship in the years ahead."

After the UK clinched the Brexit deal with the European Union, British PM Boris Johnson said that "We have taken back control of our laws and our destiny." Watch: PM Johnson said the UK and EU negotiators have reached "a comprehensive, Canada-style free trade deal".

After the UK clinched the Brexit deal with the European Union, British PM Boris Johnson said that "We have taken back control of our laws and our destiny." Watch: PM Johnson said the UK and EU negotiators have reached "a comprehensive, Canada-style free trade deal". The deal is done. pic.twitter.com/zzhvxOSeWz — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) December 24, 2020 × "We will be your ally, your supporter, your number one market - this country will remain culturally, historically, geologically attached to Europe," PM Johnson said as he sealed the Brexit agreement. In Pics: Chief characters in Britain's years-long Brexit saga Johnson added that post-Brexit trade agreement is a "a good deal for the whole of Europe". Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said that she was "confident" the Brexit deal was a "good outcome". "We will quickly be able to determine whether Germany can support today's result of the negotiations," Merkel said, adding,"I am very confident that we have a good result." Former British prime ministers David Cameron and Theresa May who had to resign over the Brexit logjam called it a welcome development "Trade deal is very welcome," Cameron said while stating that "good to end a difficult year with some positive news". It's good to end a difficult year with some positive news. Trade deal is very welcome - and a vital step in building a new relationship with the EU as friends, neighbours and partners. Many congratulations to the UK negotiating team. — David Cameron (@David_Cameron) December 24, 2020 × "Very welcome news that the UK & EU have reached agreement on the terms of a deal – one that provides confidence to business and helps keep trade flowing," former PM May said. Amid the Brexit celebrations in the UK, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was time for Scotland to be "an independent, European nation". "Before the spin starts, it's worth remembering that Brexit is happening against Scotland's will," Sturgeon said while asserting that "there is no deal that will ever make up for what Brexit takes away from us." There will be lots of focus - rightly - on the economic costs of Brexit. But ending UK participation in Erasmus - an initiative that has expanded opportunities and horizons for so many young people - is cultural vandalism by the UK government. https://t.co/sOxpcCWq5z — Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) December 24, 2020 × Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin hailed the Brexit deal saying: "While we will miss the UK from the European Union, the fact that a deal is now in place means we can focus on how we manage good relationship in the years ahead."

We have taken back control of our laws and our destiny, says UK PM Johnson after Brexit deal

Britain and the European Union agreed terms of a trade deal on Thursday after months of knife-edge negotiations and seven days before transitional arrangements come to an end.

Fineprint: UK clinches Brexit agreement with EU ahead of deadline

Chief characters in Britain's years-long Brexit saga

UK PM Boris Johnson announced on Thursday that "a deal is done" as EU and UK hammered out the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brinkmanship-or-bluster-on-brexit-and-pandemic-boris-johnson-leaves-it-late-351479">Brexit</a> deal.

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The deal is done. <a href="https://t.co/zzhvxOSeWz">pic.twitter.com/zzhvxOSeWz</a>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1342123159181516802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, negotiators talked through the night on Wednesday to arrive at the deal with fishing rights which had become the bone of contention resolved in the end.

"We have finally found an agreement after a long and winding road," Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, said.

The European Commission chief said that EU will continue to cooperate in all areas of mutual interest including climate, energy and transport.

Reports said UK PM Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had held talks throughout Wednesday as the UK neared the December 31 deadline to exit the European Union.

"Deal is done. Everything that the British public was promised during the 2016 referendum and in the general election last year is delivered by this deal," 10 Downing Street said in a statement, adding,"We have taken back control of our money, borders, laws, trade and our fishing waters. The deal is fantastic news for families and businesses in every part of the UK."

"We have signed the first free trade agreement based on zero tariffs and zero quotas that has ever been achieved with the EU. The deal is the biggest bilateral trade deal signed by either side, covering trade worth £668bn in 2019," it added.

"The deal also guarantees that we are no longer in the lunar pull of the EU, we are not bound by EU rules, there is no role for the European Court of Justice and all of our key red lines about returning sovereignty have been achieved. It means that we will have full political and economic independence on 1st January 2021," the statement added.

"It means that we will have full political and economic independence on 1st January 2021," the government said.

As the Brexit comes into force a points-based immigration system will be put in place which will put the UK in full control on who enters the UK and free movement will come to an end with the EU.

UK PM Boris Johnson announced on Thursday that "a deal is done" as EU and UK hammered out the Brexit deal. The deal is done. pic.twitter.com/zzhvxOSeWz — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) December 24, 2020 × According to reports, negotiators talked through the night on Wednesday to arrive at the deal with fishing rights which had become the bone of contention resolved in the end.

UK PM Boris Johnson announced on Thursday that "a deal is done" as EU and UK hammered out the Brexit deal. The deal is done. pic.twitter.com/zzhvxOSeWz — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) December 24, 2020 × According to reports, negotiators talked through the night on Wednesday to arrive at the deal with fishing rights which had become the bone of contention resolved in the end. "We have finally found an agreement after a long and winding road," Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, said. The European Commission chief said that EU will continue to cooperate in all areas of mutual interest including climate, energy and transport. Reports said UK PM Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had held talks throughout Wednesday as the UK neared the December 31 deadline to exit the European Union. "Deal is done. Everything that the British public was promised during the 2016 referendum and in the general election last year is delivered by this deal," 10 Downing Street said in a statement, adding,"We have taken back control of our money, borders, laws, trade and our fishing waters. The deal is fantastic news for families and businesses in every part of the UK." "We have signed the first free trade agreement based on zero tariffs and zero quotas that has ever been achieved with the EU. The deal is the biggest bilateral trade deal signed by either side, covering trade worth £668bn in 2019," it added. "The deal also guarantees that we are no longer in the lunar pull of the EU, we are not bound by EU rules, there is no role for the European Court of Justice and all of our key red lines about returning sovereignty have been achieved. It means that we will have full political and economic independence on 1st January 2021," the statement added. "It means that we will have full political and economic independence on 1st January 2021," the government said. As the Brexit comes into force a points-based immigration system will be put in place which will put the UK in full control on who enters the UK and free movement will come to an end with the EU.

'Deal is done': UK clinches Brexit agreement with EU ahead of December 31 deadline

Asian markets struck a hopeful tone on Thursday at a potential Brexit deal and economic recovery prospects Australia's S&amp;P/ASX 200 was up 0.78% in early trading, while Japan's Nikkei 225 futures were up 0.07%, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng index futures inched up 0.17%.

Investors cheered a potential Brexit trade deal between Britain and the European Union that raised hopes the estranged allies would avoid a turbulent economic rupture on New Year's Day.

"The framework for a Brexit trade deal gave investors the green light to start buying everything in Europe," said Edward Moya, Senior Market Analyst, at OANDA in New York. He was quoted by Reuters.

A potential Brexit deal also boosted sterling, which went up 0.13% against the dollar at $1.3509 after closing up 0.9%. The pound also rose after Francen lifted ban on freight coming from Britain.

Wall Street ended mostly higher, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average closing up 0.38% and the S&amp;P 500 edging 0.07% higher. The Nasdaq Composite declined 0.29%.

A raft of mixed U.S. economic data showed lower jobless claims and an uptick in new orders for durable goods, but also a pullback in consumer spending, falling personal income and fading sentiment as the holiday shopping season nears its end amid a resurgent pandemic.

Investors largely shrugged off comments by President Trump saying a nearly $900 billion stimulus bill, agreed upon after months of wrangling in Congress, was "a disgrace" that he might not sign. Trump said he wanted to increase "ridiculously low" $600 payments for individuals to $2,000, in a video posted to Twitter.

"Risk-on sentiment is guiding markets so far today and it appears to be weighted more toward possible optimism toward a Brexit deal and the cherry-picked parts of U.S. releases, rather than Trump's reckless antics over signing the stimulus and funding bill," said Derek Holt, head of capital markets Economics at Scotiabank.

Oil prices settled more than 2% higher as draws in U.S. inventories of crude, gasoline and distillates lifted investors' hopes for some return in fuel demand

(With Reuters inputs)

Asian markets struck a hopeful tone on Thursday at a potential Brexit deal and economic recovery prospects Australia's S&P/ASX 200 was up 0.78% in early trading, while Japan's Nikkei 225 futures were up 0.

Asian markets struck a hopeful tone on Thursday at a potential Brexit deal and economic recovery prospects Australia's S&P/ASX 200 was up 0.78% in early trading, while Japan's Nikkei 225 futures were up 0.07%, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng index futures inched up 0.17%. Investors cheered a potential Brexit trade deal between Britain and the European Union that raised hopes the estranged allies would avoid a turbulent economic rupture on New Year's Day. "The framework for a Brexit trade deal gave investors the green light to start buying everything in Europe," said Edward Moya, Senior Market Analyst, at OANDA in New York. He was quoted by Reuters. A potential Brexit deal also boosted sterling, which went up 0.13% against the dollar at $1.3509 after closing up 0.9%. The pound also rose after Francen lifted ban on freight coming from Britain. Wall Street ended mostly higher, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average closing up 0.38% and the S&P 500 edging 0.07% higher. The Nasdaq Composite declined 0.29%. A raft of mixed U.S. economic data showed lower jobless claims and an uptick in new orders for durable goods, but also a pullback in consumer spending, falling personal income and fading sentiment as the holiday shopping season nears its end amid a resurgent pandemic. Investors largely shrugged off comments by President Trump saying a nearly $900 billion stimulus bill, agreed upon after months of wrangling in Congress, was "a disgrace" that he might not sign. Trump said he wanted to increase "ridiculously low" $600 payments for individuals to $2,000, in a video posted to Twitter. "Risk-on sentiment is guiding markets so far today and it appears to be weighted more toward possible optimism toward a Brexit deal and the cherry-picked parts of U.S. releases, rather than Trump's reckless antics over signing the stimulus and funding bill," said Derek Holt, head of capital markets Economics at Scotiabank. Oil prices settled more than 2% higher as draws in U.S. inventories of crude, gasoline and distillates lifted investors' hopes for some return in fuel demand (With Reuters inputs)

Asian markets rise at the prospect of a Brexit deal

Britain and the European Union were on the cusp of striking a narrow trade deal on Thursday, swerving away from a chaotic finale to a Brexit split that has shaken the 70-year project to forge European unity from the ruins of World War Two.

UK and EU to announce post-Brexit trade accord

French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;is showing signs of improvement after testing positive for COVID-19 last week, his office said on Wednesday.

Earlier,&nbsp;Macron took to Twitter to post a video message in French and informed people that he is 'doing well' but is a little tired which has 'slowed down' his daily activities.

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macron-claims-he-is-doing-well-from-covid-19-and-concentrating-on-brexit-350846">Emmanuel Macron claims he is 'doing well' from COVID-19 and concentrating on Brexit</a>

Macron, 42, &nbsp;is currently residing in his presidential residence at La Lanterne in Versailles outside Paris. The French president's wife Brigitte Macron,67, tested negative for the virus. Macron had attended an EU summit last week, although it is still unclear how the French president contacted the virus.

On Wednesday, Macron had attended the dinner at a gathering at Elysee which was attended by several leaders Prime Minister&nbsp;Jean Castex, who is now also self-isolating.&nbsp;

Several top EU leaders went into self-isolation after Macron tested positive for the virus as they had come in contact with the French president during the summit including Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, European Council president Charles Michel and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

Medical experts have voiced concerns that the Christmas holidays could result in a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in&nbsp;France&nbsp;and Europe. Data published on Tuesday showed that&nbsp;France&nbsp;had reported a further 802 related deaths in the last 24 hours, and another 11,795 confirmed cases.

France&nbsp;will reopen its borders to passengers from England on Wednesday, ending a blockade intended to stop the spread of a new coronavirus variant, but which has held up thousands of lorries before Christmas.

Much of the world shut its borders to Britain after a significantly more transmissible mutated coronavirus variant was discovered spreading swiftly across southern England.

With queues of trucks snaking to the horizon in England and some supermarket shelves stripped just days before Christmas, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson scrambled to get French President Emmanuel Macron to lift a ban on freight from Britain.

French President Emmanuel Macron is showing signs of improvement after testing positive for COVID-19 last week, his office said on Wednesday. Earlier, Macron took to Twitter to post a video message in French and informed people that he is 'doing well' but is a little tired which has 'slowed down' his daily activities.

French President Emmanuel Macron is showing signs of improvement after testing positive for COVID-19 last week, his office said on Wednesday. Earlier, Macron took to Twitter to post a video message in French and informed people that he is 'doing well' but is a little tired which has 'slowed down' his daily activities. pic.twitter.com/MrfTQXpRBW — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) December 18, 2020 × Also read: Emmanuel Macron claims he is 'doing well' from COVID-19 and concentrating on Brexit Macron, 42, is currently residing in his presidential residence at La Lanterne in Versailles outside Paris. The French president's wife Brigitte Macron,67, tested negative for the virus. Macron had attended an EU summit last week, although it is still unclear how the French president contacted the virus. On Wednesday, Macron had attended the dinner at a gathering at Elysee which was attended by several leaders Prime Minister Jean Castex, who is now also self-isolating. Several top EU leaders went into self-isolation after Macron tested positive for the virus as they had come in contact with the French president during the summit including Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, European Council president Charles Michel and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. Medical experts have voiced concerns that the Christmas holidays could result in a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in France and Europe. Data published on Tuesday showed that France had reported a further 802 related deaths in the last 24 hours, and another 11,795 confirmed cases. France will reopen its borders to passengers from England on Wednesday, ending a blockade intended to stop the spread of a new coronavirus variant, but which has held up thousands of lorries before Christmas. Much of the world shut its borders to Britain after a significantly more transmissible mutated coronavirus variant was discovered spreading swiftly across southern England. With queues of trucks snaking to the horizon in England and some supermarket shelves stripped just days before Christmas, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson scrambled to get French President Emmanuel Macron to lift a ban on freight from Britain.

French President Macron showing improvement after coronavirus diagnosis

The Premier League has become the world's richest league based on its staggering global appeal, with millions tuning in to watch the best talent from around the globe week by week.

But a change of rules as a result of Brexit means English clubs will not have the same freedom to hoover up the best of European football's young players.

From January 1, a points-based system will be in place, meaning players from the European Union will now need to gain a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE), subjecting them to the same criteria as other overseas players.

Points will be awarded on the basis of the number of international appearances made, as well as club appearances in domestic and continental competitions and the standard of the club and league the player is coming from.

Getting a GBE will not be a problem for the vast majority of the Premier League's big-money arrivals but the changes will have a bigger effect on the recruitment of youth players and further down the football pyramid.

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters sounded confident earlier this month when the English top-flight, the Football Association and the English Football League announced post-Brexit arrangements.

"Continuing to be able to recruit the best players will see the Premier League remain competitive and compelling and the solution will complement our player development philosophy of the best foreign talent alongside the best homegrown players," he said.&nbsp;

The same rules will also apply to managers and coaches based on the level they have previously worked at. For example, under the new criteria, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would not have been granted a GBE, having spent most of his coaching career in Norway.

However, players and coaches who do not automatically qualify for a work permit can appeal to a panel of experts for an exemption.

As with much surrounding Brexit, however, the rules will be constantly reviewed.

<h2>- No new Fabregas or Pogba -</h2>

Britain's withdrawal from the EU means Premier League clubs will no longer benefit from an exception to world governing body FIFA's rules on the signing of minors.

FIFA&nbsp;bans all overseas transfers for under-18s&nbsp;but makes an exception for movement within the European Economic Area. That allowed Cesc Fabregas and Paul Pogba to move to England as 16-year-olds in the past but this will now no longer be possible.

<h2>- Connected clubs&nbsp;-</h2>

One way of getting around the new rules is for British-based clubs to have a link to a feeder or associate club in Europe.

Manchester City's network of clubs under the City Football Group (CFG) umbrella is the most high-profile example. CFG has stakes in lower-league sides in Spain, France and Belgium.

Leicester's owners King Power own Belgian club Leuven while Sheffield United's Saudi chief, Prince Abdullah, has an ownership stake in Belgian side Beerschot and is closing in on French Ligue 2 side Chateauroux.

These clubs could be used to 'park' young EU players until they turn 18 and also help build up the requisite number of appearances to obtain a GBE.

<h2>- Boost for British players -</h2>

The Football Association's key objective in coming to an agreement with the Premier League and English Football League was to create more opportunities for young British players.

The number of overseas under-21 players Premier League clubs can sign will be restricted to three in the upcoming January transfer window and thereafter be capped at six per season.

Speaking about the overall agreement, the FA's CEO Mark Bullingham said: "Despite having different starting perspectives on how Brexit should impact football, this is another example of how the football authorities can work effectively together for the greater good of the game."&nbsp;

He added: "We will also discuss improvements to the player pathway for the mutual benefit of football clubs and homegrown talent in this country."

The limits on signing young players from overseas will have a particular impact on EFL and Scottish league clubs, where a far higher degree of imports from Europe will not meet the criteria for a GBE.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon said he thought the rules would make a clear difference.

"We're probably looking at the British market more than anything else (for new players)," he said. "I think it's going to be difficult after the end of the year to get players in from the continent."

The Premier League has become the world's richest league based on its staggering global appeal, with millions tuning in to watch the best talent from around the globe week by week.

The Premier League has become the world's richest league based on its staggering global appeal, with millions tuning in to watch the best talent from around the globe week by week. But a change of rules as a result of Brexit means English clubs will not have the same freedom to hoover up the best of European football's young players. From January 1, a points-based system will be in place, meaning players from the European Union will now need to gain a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE), subjecting them to the same criteria as other overseas players. Points will be awarded on the basis of the number of international appearances made, as well as club appearances in domestic and continental competitions and the standard of the club and league the player is coming from. Getting a GBE will not be a problem for the vast majority of the Premier League's big-money arrivals but the changes will have a bigger effect on the recruitment of youth players and further down the football pyramid. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters sounded confident earlier this month when the English top-flight, the Football Association and the English Football League announced post-Brexit arrangements. "Continuing to be able to recruit the best players will see the Premier League remain competitive and compelling and the solution will complement our player development philosophy of the best foreign talent alongside the best homegrown players," he said. The same rules will also apply to managers and coaches based on the level they have previously worked at. For example, under the new criteria, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would not have been granted a GBE, having spent most of his coaching career in Norway. However, players and coaches who do not automatically qualify for a work permit can appeal to a panel of experts for an exemption. As with much surrounding Brexit, however, the rules will be constantly reviewed. - No new Fabregas or Pogba - Britain's withdrawal from the EU means Premier League clubs will no longer benefit from an exception to world governing body FIFA's rules on the signing of minors. FIFA bans all overseas transfers for under-18s but makes an exception for movement within the European Economic Area. That allowed Cesc Fabregas and Paul Pogba to move to England as 16-year-olds in the past but this will now no longer be possible. - Connected clubs - One way of getting around the new rules is for British-based clubs to have a link to a feeder or associate club in Europe. Manchester City's network of clubs under the City Football Group (CFG) umbrella is the most high-profile example. CFG has stakes in lower-league sides in Spain, France and Belgium. Leicester's owners King Power own Belgian club Leuven while Sheffield United's Saudi chief, Prince Abdullah, has an ownership stake in Belgian side Beerschot and is closing in on French Ligue 2 side Chateauroux. These clubs could be used to 'park' young EU players until they turn 18 and also help build up the requisite number of appearances to obtain a GBE. - Boost for British players - The Football Association's key objective in coming to an agreement with the Premier League and English Football League was to create more opportunities for young British players. The number of overseas under-21 players Premier League clubs can sign will be restricted to three in the upcoming January transfer window and thereafter be capped at six per season. Speaking about the overall agreement, the FA's CEO Mark Bullingham said: "Despite having different starting perspectives on how Brexit should impact football, this is another example of how the football authorities can work effectively together for the greater good of the game." He added: "We will also discuss improvements to the player pathway for the mutual benefit of football clubs and homegrown talent in this country." The limits on signing young players from overseas will have a particular impact on EFL and Scottish league clubs, where a far higher degree of imports from Europe will not meet the criteria for a GBE. Celtic manager Neil Lennon said he thought the rules would make a clear difference. "We're probably looking at the British market more than anything else (for new players)," he said. "I think it's going to be difficult after the end of the year to get players in from the continent."

How will Brexit rules affect the Premier League?

LONDON — Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s 11th-hour reversal on a Christmas lockdown on Saturday so rattled Britain that it managed to overshadow the other down-to-the-wire drama he was staging: the trade negotiations in Brussels between his country and the European Union.

Taken together, Johnson’s approach to the pandemic and to the Brexit talks displays his penchant for deferring hard decisions to the bitter end — a foible that critics say has complicated Britain’s handling of the pandemic and narrowed the window for public scrutiny of any trade deal with Brussels.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/several-nations-ban-uk-flights-fearing-new-covid-19-variant-351273/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Johnson’s sudden imposition of a lockdown drove thousands of Londoners to stores on a frantic Saturday night to finish Christmas shopping before the doors closed, and to railway stations to flee the capital.

That upended the government’s goal of curbing social contacts in the face of a new variant of the coronavirus that British officials said spreads far faster than the original strain. Indeed, the escapees from London are likely to spread the virus throughout the country, which reported 35,928 new cases on Sunday.

The prime minister’s foot-dragging on a post-Brexit deal is more tactical. With only 10 days before a Dec. 31 deadline, there would be very little time for a deal to be reviewed in Parliament, where pro-Brexit hard-liners would bring a gimlet eye to it. But with no margin for error, analysts say Johnson may have to accept compromises to head off an economically ruinous collapse in the talks.

“The contours of a potential deal have been known since at least last March,” said Sam Lowe, a trade expert at the Center for European Reform. “But the PM’s modus operandi is to leave tough decisions until the last minute in the hopes that something better comes along — as evidenced by his approach to COVID-19.”

Tim Bale, professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London, said, “The price of this psychological flaw, and of its political consequences, is paid in lives lost, in the case of COVID; whereas with Brexit, it could be livelihoods lost if some businesses go under because of the uncertainty caused by the delay in making a decision.”

With Britain less than two weeks away from quitting the single market and customs union, British companies still have no idea whether their goods will face tariffs if they are exported to continental Europe or Ireland. That could make auto factories unprofitable or drive some farmers out of business.

The trade talks ground on in Brussels on Sunday with no signs of a breakthrough. The two sides are mainly haggling about fishing rights, but there are signs that Johnson has already bowed to the European Union’s broader demand that Britain accept long-term limitations on its competition policy and state aid to industry.

On the pandemic, critics say Johnson’s scattershot policies have eroded public trust in the government. He has repeatedly ruled out lockdowns, only to reverse course with the assertion that the scientific evidence had changed. The mixed messages have left many confused and cynical about the rules.

In the latest about-face, Johnson cited new evidence that the variant was up to 70% more transmissible than the original virus — data that he said was presented to his Cabinet on Friday. Independent scientists generally back up his concern about the variant. But British public health officials said on Sunday that they had first identified the variant in October from a sample taken in September.

The government first disclosed the variant — as well as concerns that it might spread more quickly — last Monday when it placed London and other parts of southern and eastern Britain into what was then the highest level of restrictions. But two days later, Johnson reaffirmed his promise to relax restrictions from Dec. 23 to Dec. 27 so that families could get together for Christmas.

When the leader of the opposition Labour Party, Keir Starmer, suggested in Parliament that Johnson should rethink that plan, the prime minister mocked him. “I wish he’d had the guts to just say what he really wants to do,” Johnson said, “which is to cancel the plans people have made and cancel Christmas.”

Now, of course, the prime minister has done exactly that — only he waited three more days, during which even more people made travel plans. On Sunday, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Austria all banned flights from Britain.

Starmer, predictably, was withering in his criticism, saying that Johnson was “so scared of being unpopular that he is incapable of taking tough decisions until it is too late.”

The prime minister had given a glimpse into his fears earlier in the week when he alluded to Oliver Cromwell, who discouraged Christmas festivities during the ascetic days of the Puritan movement in England in the mid-17th century. The British papers, which had played up the precedent of Cromwell in the past few weeks, lost no time in tagging Johnson with it after he announced the Christmas lockdown.

Surprisingly, perhaps, the tough measures by themselves are not unpopular. A poll conducted by the research firm YouGov after Johnson’s announcement on Saturday found that 67% of people said that they supported added restrictions. But 61% of people said the government had handled the rollout poorly.

Johnson, analysts said, was pressured by the same lawmakers in his Conservative Party who are likely to resist a trade agreement with the European Union. To that extent, the pandemic and the Brexit talks have a link.

Because his mismanagement of the lockdown rules has angered some Conservative lawmakers, they said, Johnson might now calculate that he cannot afford another backlash in Parliament by striking a trade agreement with the EU that would be unpopular with the hard-line Brexiteers.

Johnson has navigated such shoals throughout his political career. His deadline mentality — honed during his days as a newspaper reporter and columnist — has sometimes resulted in shrewd decisions.

He dithered for weeks, for example, before backing Britain’s exit from the EU, even writing essays that argued both sides of the issue. It was a roll of the dice that paid off in giving him a path to Downing Street.

On balance, analysts still predict that Johnson will come to terms with the EU in the next few days. But by leaving the final decision so late, the prime minister has raised the odds that, as with the Christmas lockdown, he may have little choice but to accept the offer on the table.

“Johnson’s technique for dealing with problems is to let them run out of control, building to a point of sufficient crisis that delay is no longer viable,” Rafael Behr wrote in a column for The Guardian. “That way, the choice becomes perversely easier because there are fewer options left.”

LONDON — Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s 11th-hour reversal on a Christmas lockdown on Saturday so rattled Britain that it managed to overshadow the other down-to-the-wire drama he was staging: the trade negotiations in Brussels between his country and the European Union.

LONDON — Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s 11th-hour reversal on a Christmas lockdown on Saturday so rattled Britain that it managed to overshadow the other down-to-the-wire drama he was staging: the trade negotiations in Brussels between his country and the European Union. Taken together, Johnson’s approach to the pandemic and to the Brexit talks displays his penchant for deferring hard decisions to the bitter end — a foible that critics say has complicated Britain’s handling of the pandemic and narrowed the window for public scrutiny of any trade deal with Brussels. Watch | Johnson’s sudden imposition of a lockdown drove thousands of Londoners to stores on a frantic Saturday night to finish Christmas shopping before the doors closed, and to railway stations to flee the capital. That upended the government’s goal of curbing social contacts in the face of a new variant of the coronavirus that British officials said spreads far faster than the original strain. Indeed, the escapees from London are likely to spread the virus throughout the country, which reported 35,928 new cases on Sunday. The prime minister’s foot-dragging on a post-Brexit deal is more tactical. With only 10 days before a Dec. 31 deadline, there would be very little time for a deal to be reviewed in Parliament, where pro-Brexit hard-liners would bring a gimlet eye to it. But with no margin for error, analysts say Johnson may have to accept compromises to head off an economically ruinous collapse in the talks. “The contours of a potential deal have been known since at least last March,” said Sam Lowe, a trade expert at the Center for European Reform. “But the PM’s modus operandi is to leave tough decisions until the last minute in the hopes that something better comes along — as evidenced by his approach to COVID-19.” Tim Bale, professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London, said, “The price of this psychological flaw, and of its political consequences, is paid in lives lost, in the case of COVID; whereas with Brexit, it could be livelihoods lost if some businesses go under because of the uncertainty caused by the delay in making a decision.” With Britain less than two weeks away from quitting the single market and customs union, British companies still have no idea whether their goods will face tariffs if they are exported to continental Europe or Ireland. That could make auto factories unprofitable or drive some farmers out of business. The trade talks ground on in Brussels on Sunday with no signs of a breakthrough. The two sides are mainly haggling about fishing rights, but there are signs that Johnson has already bowed to the European Union’s broader demand that Britain accept long-term limitations on its competition policy and state aid to industry. On the pandemic, critics say Johnson’s scattershot policies have eroded public trust in the government. He has repeatedly ruled out lockdowns, only to reverse course with the assertion that the scientific evidence had changed. The mixed messages have left many confused and cynical about the rules. In the latest about-face, Johnson cited new evidence that the variant was up to 70% more transmissible than the original virus — data that he said was presented to his Cabinet on Friday. Independent scientists generally back up his concern about the variant. But British public health officials said on Sunday that they had first identified the variant in October from a sample taken in September. The government first disclosed the variant — as well as concerns that it might spread more quickly — last Monday when it placed London and other parts of southern and eastern Britain into what was then the highest level of restrictions. But two days later, Johnson reaffirmed his promise to relax restrictions from Dec. 23 to Dec. 27 so that families could get together for Christmas. When the leader of the opposition Labour Party, Keir Starmer, suggested in Parliament that Johnson should rethink that plan, the prime minister mocked him. “I wish he’d had the guts to just say what he really wants to do,” Johnson said, “which is to cancel the plans people have made and cancel Christmas.” Now, of course, the prime minister has done exactly that — only he waited three more days, during which even more people made travel plans. On Sunday, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Austria all banned flights from Britain. Starmer, predictably, was withering in his criticism, saying that Johnson was “so scared of being unpopular that he is incapable of taking tough decisions until it is too late.” The prime minister had given a glimpse into his fears earlier in the week when he alluded to Oliver Cromwell, who discouraged Christmas festivities during the ascetic days of the Puritan movement in England in the mid-17th century. The British papers, which had played up the precedent of Cromwell in the past few weeks, lost no time in tagging Johnson with it after he announced the Christmas lockdown. Surprisingly, perhaps, the tough measures by themselves are not unpopular. A poll conducted by the research firm YouGov after Johnson’s announcement on Saturday found that 67% of people said that they supported added restrictions. But 61% of people said the government had handled the rollout poorly. Johnson, analysts said, was pressured by the same lawmakers in his Conservative Party who are likely to resist a trade agreement with the European Union. To that extent, the pandemic and the Brexit talks have a link. Because his mismanagement of the lockdown rules has angered some Conservative lawmakers, they said, Johnson might now calculate that he cannot afford another backlash in Parliament by striking a trade agreement with the EU that would be unpopular with the hard-line Brexiteers. Johnson has navigated such shoals throughout his political career. His deadline mentality — honed during his days as a newspaper reporter and columnist — has sometimes resulted in shrewd decisions. He dithered for weeks, for example, before backing Britain’s exit from the EU, even writing essays that argued both sides of the issue. It was a roll of the dice that paid off in giving him a path to Downing Street. On balance, analysts still predict that Johnson will come to terms with the EU in the next few days. But by leaving the final decision so late, the prime minister has raised the odds that, as with the Christmas lockdown, he may have little choice but to accept the offer on the table. “Johnson’s technique for dealing with problems is to let them run out of control, building to a point of sufficient crisis that delay is no longer viable,” Rafael Behr wrote in a column for The Guardian. “That way, the choice becomes perversely easier because there are fewer options left.”

Brinkmanship or bluster? On Brexit and pandemic, Boris Johnson leaves it late

Fearing a trade deal between Britain and the European Union might be elusive, Snag Tights, a Scottish newcomer in the hosiery business, set up a hub in Europe this year to avoid potential tariffs, bringing 30 jobs to the Dutch town of Venlo.

Dutch town attracts Scottish tights maker amid Brexit doubt

British member of Parliament have issued a warning saying the country is not ready yet for Brexit. In a report a group of British MPs have warned that Britain has not yet install all the complex IT systems and the port infrastructure required to insure Brexit runs smoothly. The group also said that they were concerned about the overall state of readiness.

British MPs issues Brexit warning

Brexit trade deal talks are going on still between the European Union (EU) and the UK but the discussions appear to have reached a deadlock on Sunday. The talks are threatened by failure as both sides have dug their heels on the issue of access to UK's rich fishing waters. Britain is set to leave the EU in two weeks and failure to reach a post-Brexit trade deal could result in cross-channel tariffs and further disputes in future.

The European Parliament had fixed Sunday as the last moment it could accept a text of any accord if MEPs are to ratify it before Britain leaves the EU single market. But its unclear to what extent the new deadline would be followed considering the deadlock in negotiations.

"We're continuing to try every possible path to an agreement, but without a substantial shift from the (European) Commission we will be leaving on WTO terms on 31 December," a British government source said. 
But a European diplomat had told AFP that Brussels had made its best offer and it was down now to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson -- now distracted by a worsening coronavirus crisis at home -- to decide whether he wants a deal.&nbsp;

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"It could well continue over Christmas, now the UK is still making up its mind whether it is willing to pay the price for unprecedented access to the internal market," he said&nbsp;

"The EU has been clear this weekend that it is willing to compromise on fish. But it will bail at putting EU fishermen structurally out of business. The narrow path to a deal has now become a single goat track, about to peter out."

The tough talk came as the negotiators scramble to secure a pact before December 31. No deal would risk chaos at EU and UK borders, where a pre-deadline rush of freight trucks has already caused long tailbacks.

Britain intends to assume control over its waters on January 1, but is ready to allow continued access to EU fishing fleets for a transitional period under new terms.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-northern-ireland-changes-when-brexit-transition-ends-351172">How Northern Ireland changes when Brexit transition ends</a>

UK negotiator David Frost wants Britain to take back more than half the fish currently assigned under the EU quota system, under a three-year agreement.

The European side insists the UK can not have tariff-free access to the EU single market as a whole unless it agrees to take back only a quarter of the fish quota -- and that the transitional period would last seven years.

The issue is highly charged for both Britain and EU members with northern fishing fleets like France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark, and diplomatic sources admit the whole trade package could collapse. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

"We cannot accept a deal that doesn't leave us in control of our own laws or waters," the UK government source said, arguing that the EU was "continuing to make demands that are incompatible with our independence".

EU fishermen fear losing any access to the rich UK fishing waters will threaten their livelihoods.&nbsp;

"We are in the throes of being sold down the river," the European Fisheries Alliance said in a statement, urging EU negotiator Michel Barnier to stick by them.

(With AFP inputs)

Brexit trade deal talks are going on still between the European Union (EU) and the UK but the discussions appear to have reached a deadlock on Sunday. The talks are threatened by failure as both sides have dug their heels on the issue of access to UK's rich fishing waters.

Brexit trade deal talks are going on still between the European Union (EU) and the UK but the discussions appear to have reached a deadlock on Sunday. The talks are threatened by failure as both sides have dug their heels on the issue of access to UK's rich fishing waters. Britain is set to leave the EU in two weeks and failure to reach a post-Brexit trade deal could result in cross-channel tariffs and further disputes in future. The European Parliament had fixed Sunday as the last moment it could accept a text of any accord if MEPs are to ratify it before Britain leaves the EU single market. But its unclear to what extent the new deadline would be followed considering the deadlock in negotiations. "We're continuing to try every possible path to an agreement, but without a substantial shift from the (European) Commission we will be leaving on WTO terms on 31 December," a British government source said. But a European diplomat had told AFP that Brussels had made its best offer and it was down now to UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson -- now distracted by a worsening coronavirus crisis at home -- to decide whether he wants a deal. × "It could well continue over Christmas, now the UK is still making up its mind whether it is willing to pay the price for unprecedented access to the internal market," he said "The EU has been clear this weekend that it is willing to compromise on fish. But it will bail at putting EU fishermen structurally out of business. The narrow path to a deal has now become a single goat track, about to peter out." The tough talk came as the negotiators scramble to secure a pact before December 31. No deal would risk chaos at EU and UK borders, where a pre-deadline rush of freight trucks has already caused long tailbacks. Britain intends to assume control over its waters on January 1, but is ready to allow continued access to EU fishing fleets for a transitional period under new terms. Also Read | How Northern Ireland changes when Brexit transition ends UK negotiator David Frost wants Britain to take back more than half the fish currently assigned under the EU quota system, under a three-year agreement. The European side insists the UK can not have tariff-free access to the EU single market as a whole unless it agrees to take back only a quarter of the fish quota -- and that the transitional period would last seven years. The issue is highly charged for both Britain and EU members with northern fishing fleets like France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark, and diplomatic sources admit the whole trade package could collapse. "We cannot accept a deal that doesn't leave us in control of our own laws or waters," the UK government source said, arguing that the EU was "continuing to make demands that are incompatible with our independence". EU fishermen fear losing any access to the rich UK fishing waters will threaten their livelihoods. "We are in the throes of being sold down the river," the European Fisheries Alliance said in a statement, urging EU negotiator Michel Barnier to stick by them. (With AFP inputs)

EU-UK Brexit trade deal talks threatened by failure over fish

Northern Ireland will be subject to unique arrangements on tax, borders and trade when the Brexit transition period ends on December 31.

London and Brussels agreed on the plan -- separate to the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal -- to prevent a hard border between the province and EU member Ireland. The frontier became a flashpoint during more than two decades of violence over British rule of Northern Ireland.

Here is what will change:

- Border rules -

Under the special arrangements, Northern Ireland will align with the EU's single market regulations and the customs union.

This means from January 1 goods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) will be travelling within the UK while in effect crossing the EU-UK border.

A pact between Brussels and London aims to minimise port checks and disruption on goods bound for Northern Ireland as their final destination.

But freight scheduled to travel onwards to Ireland or any other EU member will be subject to the same controls as all UK-EU trade, with checks taking place at Northern Irish ports and airports.

- Food checks -&nbsp;

Under the "Northern Ireland protocol", agricultural foods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain will require new paperwork and checks starting in 2021.

London and Brussels recently agreed a "grace period" until April 1 for supermarkets and suppliers to prevent disruption to food stocks, as officials warned port will not be ready to handle the checks.

- Tariffs -

The deal to minimise disruption on freight bound for Northern Ireland from mainland Britain means most goods will not face tariffs.

However, businesses will need to register for a "trusted trader&nbsp;scheme", declaring that Northern Ireland is its final destination.

"The scheme will be open only to businesses established in Northern Ireland, or businesses who meet certain closely linked criteria," the UK government said.

- Value-added tax -

EU value-added tax (VAT) law will continue to apply in Northern Ireland.

The British government has said it will apply "on goods moving to, from and within Northern Ireland".

However, the province will remain part of the UK's VAT system, which firms will use to reclaim tax on trade with EU companies.

- NI-EU trade -

While Northern Ireland will remain a part of the United Kingdom, it will be able to continue unfettered trade with the Republic of Ireland and other EU member states from January 1.

This will remain true whether or not Britain and the EU seal a wider deal on their future trading relationship.

Some have suggested it may give business in the province an edge over mainland British counterparts.

Northern Ireland will be subject to unique arrangements on tax, borders and trade when the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. London and Brussels agreed on the plan -- separate to the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal -- to prevent a hard border between the province and EU member Ireland.

Northern Ireland will be subject to unique arrangements on tax, borders and trade when the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. London and Brussels agreed on the plan -- separate to the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal -- to prevent a hard border between the province and EU member Ireland. The frontier became a flashpoint during more than two decades of violence over British rule of Northern Ireland. Here is what will change: - Border rules - Under the special arrangements, Northern Ireland will align with the EU's single market regulations and the customs union. This means from January 1 goods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) will be travelling within the UK while in effect crossing the EU-UK border. A pact between Brussels and London aims to minimise port checks and disruption on goods bound for Northern Ireland as their final destination. But freight scheduled to travel onwards to Ireland or any other EU member will be subject to the same controls as all UK-EU trade, with checks taking place at Northern Irish ports and airports. - Food checks - Under the "Northern Ireland protocol", agricultural foods arriving in Northern Ireland from mainland Britain will require new paperwork and checks starting in 2021. London and Brussels recently agreed a "grace period" until April 1 for supermarkets and suppliers to prevent disruption to food stocks, as officials warned port will not be ready to handle the checks. - Tariffs - The deal to minimise disruption on freight bound for Northern Ireland from mainland Britain means most goods will not face tariffs. However, businesses will need to register for a "trusted trader scheme", declaring that Northern Ireland is its final destination. "The scheme will be open only to businesses established in Northern Ireland, or businesses who meet certain closely linked criteria," the UK government said. - Value-added tax - EU value-added tax (VAT) law will continue to apply in Northern Ireland. The British government has said it will apply "on goods moving to, from and within Northern Ireland". However, the province will remain part of the UK's VAT system, which firms will use to reclaim tax on trade with EU companies. - NI-EU trade - While Northern Ireland will remain a part of the United Kingdom, it will be able to continue unfettered trade with the Republic of Ireland and other EU member states from January 1. This will remain true whether or not Britain and the EU seal a wider deal on their future trading relationship. Some have suggested it may give business in the province an edge over mainland British counterparts.

How Northern Ireland changes when Brexit transition ends

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