Prime Minister Boris Johnson signs the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement at 10 Downing Street, Westminster Image: Leon Neal via PA Images Prime Minister Boris Johnson signs the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement at 10 Downing Street, Westminster Image: Leon Neal via PA Images BREXIT BECOMES A reality today as Britain leaves Europe’s customs union and single market, ending nearly half a century of often turbulent ties with its closest neighbours.
Legally, Britain left on 31 January but has been in a standstill transition period during fractious talks to a secure a free-trade agreement with Brussels, which was finally clinched on Christmas Eve. The EU has lost 66 million people and an economy worth $2.85 trillion, but Brexit, with its appeal to nationalist populism, also triggered fears other disgruntled members could follow suit.“It’s been a long road. It’s time now to put Brexit behind us. Our future is made in Europe,” European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said on Wednesday, as she signed the trade pact.
This moment is finally upon us and now is the time to seize it. Related Reads 30.12.20 'A new and great future': Britain's EU trade deal clears the Commons 29.12.20 Johnson wins backing of Brexiteers for trade deal, who say agreement 'preserves UK's sovereignty' 28.12.
Yesterday, he hailed regulatory approval of Oxford University and AstraZeneca’s Covid vaccine, and a “new beginning” for a prosperous, more globally focused Britain. #Open journalism No news is bad news Support The Journal Your contributions will help us continue to deliver the stories that are important to youThat includes disruption at the ports, which have stoked fears of food and medicine shortages, as well as delays to holidaymakers and business travellers used to seamless travel in the EU.
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