This v interesting from @tconnellyRTE. Sides still miles apart on customs. EU concerned about UK proposals to keep NI in UK customs territory, but operating EU's rules & procedures. Complex, not yet properly worked out, no precedent for a dual customs system in one territory. 1/
@tconnellyRTE Johnson didn't flesh out any detail in short cabinet call (about 20 mins) today. (PM told cab 'I'm not going into any detail because it will leak') Cabinet expected fuller update at Tues meeting. PM said negotiations ongoing, Wirral meet positive but sill a lot of work to do 2/
@tconnellyRTE Johnson didn't flesh out any detail in short cabinet call (about 20 mins) today. (PM told cab 'I'm not going into any detail because it will leak') Cabinet expected fuller update at Tues meeting. PM said negotiations ongoing, Wirral meet positive but sill a lot of work to do 2/
@tconnellyRTE Govt clear NI leaves CU with rest of UK. But huge difficulties as to how to avoid customs checks N-S. UK also
wants to remove 'level playing field' assurances in pol declaration (Brexiteers hate it). EU will be wary (remember May's 'Singapore of the west' threat Lancaster House)
wants to remove 'level playing field' assurances in pol declaration (Brexiteers hate it). EU will be wary (remember May's 'Singapore of the west' threat Lancaster House)
@tconnellyRTE Technical talks cont tmrw between UK/EU officials. PM expected to have calls with Merkel/Macron maybe Juncker. Then IF they can agree deal (caps locks IF) PM has to get it past DUP & ERG. On his side will be the immense political pressure to pass deal 12 days out from B-day 4/
