Today’s meeting was clearly v significant. Irish have always said backstop must stay until alternative that achieved same objectives. If such an alternative has been tabled by UK, then that unlocks path to agreement
Dublin was v gloomy about prospects yesterday. So any new proposals have been landed suddenly.
But look at what Varadkar said afterwards – no customs checks, all-Ireland economy. So only a move on customs can make a deal possible.
An application of Theresa May’s “customs partnership” idea, restricting it to Northern Ireland is, as my colleague @denisstaunton points out, is the only solution knocking around now that could square the circle. This accords with what I hear.
@denisstaunton It would mean NI leaves EU customs union, but would administer EU customs rules – meaning some checks (along with reg checks Boris Johnson has already suggested) between NI and GB
@denisstaunton Clearly some consent mechanisms needed but both sides seem to think that can be worked out. Whether NI parties agree is another matter
@denisstaunton There’s a long way to go. Tomorrow’s meeting between Barnier and Barclay could put everything back to square one.
But there’s clearly a move on. A deal remains a long way off, but it looks more possible now
But there’s clearly a move on. A deal remains a long way off, but it looks more possible now
