It isn’t over till the fat lady sings, they say. The generally refers to opera, but Brexit feels more than ever like a Greek tragedy.
It is 22nd October; by 31st December a trade deal has to be in place, agreed not only by the UK but by all the member states of the EU, or else it will be World Trade Organisation rules for the UK.
The UK feels it has preferred status since they were a member for 45 years. The EU doesn’t want to be seen doing favours for renegades. 15 all.
Britain wants to have the right to subsidise its own industries, thus destroying the level playing field concept behind EU trading rules. That won’t wash (as it stands); 15-30 to the EU.
On behalf of fishermen, the UK wants to restrict fishing rights to UK boats, who end up selling most of their prize catch back to Europe. We are not talking about cod or plaice here, the mainstay of fish and chip restaurants in the UK. They are caught outside of coastal waters. We are talking of delicacies less wanted by British restaurants but eagerly bought up by continental eateries. Protectionism – again not an EU trading principle; 15-40.
Arbitration should fall to the European Courts, says the EU; no, to the British courts says the UK. I somehow do not see the EU bowing to adjudications from a non-EU country; game to the EU.
Both sides are calling from compromise from the other. Boris Johnson does not want to lose face back home; “Give us a Canada deal!” Talk about comparing apples and pears! The EU does not want to give a ‘reward’ to a former member state for jumping ship and the refusal to pay further membership fees.
Does the EU chief negotiator want to be cast in the role of the father in the parable of the prodigal son? I doubt it.
The spin will go on for a long time after talks (probably) break down. The EU is left with a still considerable trading block, much bigger than it was than when the UK joined 45 years ago, and the UK will be left standing on its own.
The vote is open for driver of the day; I think Barnier should get the most votes. I like his new EU face mask with the yellow stars on it!
(With apologies for mixing several metaphors: opera, tennis and Formula 1)
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