Brexit: The Withdrawal of the UK from the EU

Introduction

• Brexit: Short for "British exit".
• It involves the UK withdrawing from the European Union (EU).
• The process has been likened to a theatre play, with politicians playing key roles.

Act 1: David Cameron

• 2013: Then British Prime Minister, David Cameron, announces plans to change the UK's role in the EU.
• Promises a referendum on EU membership.
• Referendum Outcome: Narrow margin for leaving the EU.
  • Result was unexpected.
• Post-Referendum: Cameron resigns.

Act 2: Theresa May

• July 2016: Theresa May becomes Prime Minister.
• March 2017: Official notice of withdrawal submitted to the EU.
• Negotiation Period:
  • Topics: Free trade, citizens' rights, exit costs, debts, backstop.
  • Backstop Issue: Border controls between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
  • Initial failure to reach agreements.
• November 2018: Withdrawal agreement reached.
  • Britain to follow EU regulations without voting rights.
• House of Commons Voting:
  • Majority reject the negotiated Brexit agreement.
  • Multiple drafts and proposals rejected.
  • Result: Brexit postponed.
• June 2019: May resigns after failed negotiations.

Act 3: Boris Johnson

• July 2019: Boris Johnson becomes Prime Minister.
• Objective: Achieve Brexit by October 31, 2019, even without an agreement ("hard Brexit").
• Challenges:
  • Resistance from opposition and within his party.
  • No Deal Brexit Act: Requires postponement if no agreement by October 19.
• Parliament Suspension:
  • Johnson suspends Parliament for five weeks, claiming need for new government plan.
  • Legal challenges ensue.
  • Supreme Court rules suspension unlawful.
  • Parliament resumes sitting.
• Brexit Deal:
  • October 17: Agreement with EU's Jean-Claude Juncker.
  • House of Commons Vote: Proposal fails.
  • Next Steps: Awaiting decision until January 31, 2020.

Conclusion

• Continued uncertainty over Brexit outcome.
• Potential for further developments beyond January 31, 2020.