“This will never end” said one exasperated EU politician to me tonight. At the moment EU leaders are hoping to avoid having to coming to Brussels “just for #Brexit again” as they put it /1
If EU leaders stick to 31st Jan extension requested by the PM (even if he asked through gritted teeth) then they feel they can agree in writing rather than in person at a special summit. /2
An EU politician expressed his frustration at the thought of another #Brexit summit. “We have to dance like Pinocchio in this game that’s not ours” an EU politician said to me, adding:”It’s so annoying and upsetting by now” /3
Temptation amongst most I speak to tonight in EU circles is to grant the 31 Jan extension mentioned in Benn Act without much debate A) EU doesnt want to make a song and dance about the extension B) There’s s concern if they choose a shorter extension than the one requested.. /4
(As France would prefer) then Remainers might accuse EU of throwing UK out the door but C) There’s also a concern if a longer extension were granted than stipulated in Benn Act then Leavers could accuse EU of trying to keep UK in against its will. /5
EU aim now: to avoid being embroiled in UK Brexit debate. Stay as neutral as possible by going for extension requested by Parliament and then the PM (however grudgingly he May have done so) /6
