British Prime Minister Theresa May has ruled out that the United Kingdom (UK) will remain in the customs union with the European Union (EU) after Brexit. May wants to put an end to the growing divisions within her government. That reports Business Insider.
Previously, May seemed open to maintaining something akin to the current customs union, which regulates essentials surrounding trade. However, a British government source said Sunday evening: "To create peace of mind, we say clearly that we are leaving the Customs Union. The aim is not to stay in the Customs Union."
A group of Brexiteers suggested last Friday that May should be sidelined by a 'dream team' led by Boris Johnson, Michael Gove and Jacob Rees-Mogg. At least, if she would not opt for a hard Brexit, the newspaper reported The Sunday Times.
Staying within customs union
Last week the newspaper reported The Financial Times that the British government was investigating whether, after a transition period of 2 years, it can still remain within the customs union. This would avoid disrupting trade flows between the UK and the EU and make the difficult issue of the new border with Ireland more manageable. The development has aroused suspicion among conservative parliamentarians, who would rather see a complete break with the EU. This gives the UK more leeway to conclude trade agreements with non-EU countries.
According to The Sunday Timers, Conservative MPs approached Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson on Friday. They allegedly asked him to stage a 'coup' with fellow Brexiters Gove and Rees-Mogg. Johnson could then become Prime Minister, Gove Deputy Prime Minister and Rees-Mogg Secretary of the Treasury. Within the Conservative Party, the trio are referred to as 'The three Brexiteers'.
May support
Johnson has reportedly told the insurgent parliamentarians to support Prime Minister May, but that he would "be ready" if a discussion about Conservative Party leadership is necessary. He has also reportedly indicated that there will be support to block the plan (maintaining the customs union).
The British Home Secretary (Amber Rudd) tried to calm down on Sunday. She stated in conversation with the BBC that the government is more aligned than critics claim. "I have a surprise for the Brexiteers. The working group that prepares these decisions is much more aligned than expected. We will arrive at something that is acceptable to everyone. Choices have to be made, but we all want the same thing: a deal which works out well for the UK."
Also read on Business Insider:
A 'dream team' of fervent Brexiteers must put doubting May aside.
The Brexit costs that the British government preferred to keep secret.
These are the key faces in the Brexit negotiations.
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