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As we know, Art.50 talks aren't moving very fast, for reasons explored extensively elsewhere
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However, lack of substantive progress not = lack of activity
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As we move through Art.50, possible end-states come into view, both + and -
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And so we see actors trying to lay groundwork for these. Thus, space-creating is indirect progress
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That's visible in many places. Here are just 3 examples, but I'm sure you have others
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1st, think of how EU27 progress on 'future of Eur' agenda in parallel to A50: UK is v.marginal in this, despite being directly affected
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whatever happens w Brexit, UK will be faced w changed EU that takes less account of UK interests
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2nd, think of how HMG is trying to keep zone of ambiguity around A50 process & outcome, to try and manage CON and Parliament
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yesterday's confusion over votes on deals wasn't intentional, but useful in that regard: harder to hit a moving target
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3rd, the CHH letter/DM headline today. This is about making space to create narratives shld Brexit end in a mess
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See this as part of a bigger frame of "Brexit wld have worked, if only..." that various ppl have tried in recent mths
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In short, everyone's playing games, but not all the same game, so s/one's going to get blindsided
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