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1. Let’s assume that the reason for extending article 50 is to provide the UK with the space & time to revisit its redlines, and the two sides to then rework the political declaration.
This still leaves EU27 with the question of length - short or long extension.
This still leaves EU27 with the question of length - short or long extension.
2. Argument for short extension: enough time for MPs to hold indicative votes, and for the withdrawal agreement to then pass on the basis of the two sides making commitments on the effects of the results of those votes being implemented. eg when UK implements X then Y happens
3. Long extension argument: UK MPs don’t have a proven track record of making quick decisions. They need more time. The risk in this scenario is political: regardless of the reasons for an extension granted today, these could be disrupted by an election, a new gov’t & parliament.
In neither of these scenarios are no deal, no Brexit or a referendum off the table. For the EU27 it will be all about managing and calculating risk and possibilities. Not easy or straightforward given the current state of UK politics.
