Useful thread from one of our Brussels journalists (without whom we really wouldn't know a lot about the state of UK-EU negotiations). Progress next weeks possibly laying the ground for a deal in October, and text by, gulp, early November.
An agreement only available early November really can't be effectively scrutinised by mid-December, still less can business be ready for e.g. rules of origin requirements. The UK Parliament may not be allowed a vote, but the European version must have one.
Michael Gove suggested yesterday no implementation period for a new agreement, and obviously government wants business to be ready. Much to be done deal or no-deal. But right now the timescales don't look right. Call it something else?
This would also be my concern (and probably that of anyone previously involved in trade talks). Consolidating a final text is usually time consuming. There will (and should) be issues. Optimistic noises, but we are far from the finish line.
Incidentally whilst UK MPs will not get a vote on a UK-EU FTA there is likely to be unpopular content - for ERG MPs for example confirmation of UK recognition of EU Geographical Indications and other rules, and processes existing between GB and Northern Ireland.
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