NEW: Proposals delivered in Brussels plus the PM’s letter to Jean Claude Juncker /1
What not to expect: The EU coming out with an outright immediate rejection of the PMs proposals. Brussels does not want to be seen to be the one closing the door to a deal. Throughout this process they’ve again and again kicked the ball back into the UK gov’s court /2
I expect the EU to point out that various elements of the PMs proposal are not compatible with its red lines BUT the EU will likely say publicly that it’s door is open 24/7 to the gov to negotiate on the ‘basis’ of this deal /3
Question is: Is the PM willing to move from his take it or leave it position? If he is, there will be something to talk about with the EU. If he won’t the EU will avoid being the ones saying “Forget it” /4
