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EU27 diplomats meet in Brexit working group mid-morning to discuss state of play - participants must leave their phones at the door and confidentiality stressed
EU is waiting to see, Frost here tomorrow, whether “process with us is genuine or for Westminster purpose”, said one source. "I think some in Number 10 want a deal”
Key decisions tomorrow. Coreper will decide whether to reopen the Article 50 structures of updates to Europe ministers (note the Arctic A50 meeting) and regular meetings to assess developments
That seems likely
It is worth noting that EU side sees Johnson’s demands on backstop has less of a real problem as his lack of a parliamentary majority
It is worth noting that EU side sees Johnson’s demands on backstop has less of a real problem as his lack of a parliamentary majority
That needs to change for any negotiation to become real and throws any question of a new extension amid continued deadlock into doubt
Extension: important points worth noting in terms of the reality outside the Westminster delusion zone
Extension is not a given, it will only be given “there’s a credible purpose” in the past that was defined as general election or second referendum.
It is not all a certainty - especially point of view of Macron - if it just to extend the parliamentary deadlock in Britain. French president made it clear in April he does not see extension as legitimate if it is about frustrating Brexit
That political question mark if extension is requested on basis of continued impasse in Commons means that the default position for EU is now no deal preparedness.
An extension might be just a very short one on basis of best timing for EU of its no deal preparations. No guarantee at all that EU leaders would grant "rebel" plea for extension until Jan 31 2020
Why would Macron, for example, back that? Choice for the MPs would then be no deal or revoke (this is probably the plan for many Remainers)
The length of the extension period is the EU’s decision. UK can refuse it but that’s the deal, take it or leave it. That's how it worked last time.
On Apr 10, 2 days before end of first delay, May asked for extension until Jun 30. She was offered extension until Oct 31, take it or leave it. She took it
EU27 will set a date that suits them (and most likely in terms of a no deal moment), not to suit Hilary Benn or Oliver Letwin. It's how it works
That should be - note the ANTICI A50 meetings
