Brexit
Brexit is a term coined to describe the United Kingdom's decision to leave the European Union. This decision was made official when the UK voted in a referendum held on June 23, 2016. Here are key points regarding Brexit:
Background
- The UK joined the precursor to the EU, the European Economic Community, in 1973.
- Over time, issues like sovereignty, immigration, and economic policy led to rising Euroscepticism within the UK.
- David Cameron, then Prime Minister, promised a referendum on EU membership in the Conservative Party's 2015 election manifesto to address this growing concern.
The Referendum
- The referendum question was: "Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave the European Union?"
- 51.9% voted to leave, while 48.1% voted to remain.
- The turnout was 72.2%, one of the highest in UK electoral history.
Aftermath and Negotiations
- David Cameron resigned as Prime Minister following the vote, and Theresa May succeeded him.
- The process to leave the EU was initiated under Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union on March 29, 2017, starting a two-year negotiation period.
- Negotiations covered issues like trade, the Irish border, citizens' rights, and financial settlements.
- Theresa May's withdrawal agreement was rejected multiple times by Parliament, leading to her resignation in 2019.
- Boris Johnson, who campaigned for Brexit, became Prime Minister and renegotiated the withdrawal agreement.
Exit
- The UK officially left the EU at 11pm GMT on January 31, 2020, entering an 11-month transition period during which it continued to follow EU rules and remained part of the single market and customs union.
- On December 24, 2020, a trade deal was agreed upon, avoiding a no-deal Brexit.
- The transition period ended on December 31, 2020, marking the start of the UK's new relationship with the EU.
Impact and Ongoing Issues
- Brexit has had wide-ranging effects on the UK's economy, immigration policy, regulatory environment, and international relations.
- Trade with the EU has faced new barriers, impacting businesses and supply chains.
- Issues concerning Northern Ireland's relationship with the EU, particularly around trade, have continued to be contentious.
- The UK government is in the process of negotiating trade agreements with other countries and blocs.
Sources
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