The future relationship between the UK and the EU

Foreword by the Secretary of State

Ganzen Artikel als PDF/Entire article as PDF (224 KB)

Leaving the European Union involves challenge and opportunity. We need to rise to the challenge and grasp the opportunities. Technological revolutions and scientific transformations are driving major changes in the global economy. In line with our modern Industrial Strategy, this Government is determined to make sure the UK is ready to lead the industries of the future and seize the opportunities of global trade.
At the same time, we need to cater for the deeply integrated supply chains that criss-cross the UK and the EU, and which have developed over our 40 years of membership.

The plan outlined in this White Paper delivers this balance.
It would take the UK out of the Single Market and the Customs Union.
It would give the UK the flexibility we need to strike new trade deals around the world, in particular breaking new ground for agreements in services.
It would maintain frictionless trade in goods between the UK and the EU through a new free trade area, responding to the needs of business. It would deliver on both sides’ commitments to Northern Ireland and Ireland, avoiding a hard border without compromising the EU’s autonomy or UK sovereignty.
This is the right approach – for both the UK and for the EU. The White Paper sets out in detail how it would work.
Alongside this unprecedented economic partnership, we also want to build an unrivalled security partnership, and an unparalleled partnership on cross-cutting issues such as data, and science and innovation.

And to bolster this cooperation, we will need a new model of working together that allows the relationship to function smoothly on a day-to-day basis, and respond and adapt to new threats and global shifts while taking back control of our laws.

The White Paper details our proposals in all of these areas, setting out a comprehensive vision for the future relationship. It is a vision that respects the result of the referendum, and delivers a principled and practical Brexit.

RT HON DOMINIC RAAB MP

SECRETARY OF STATE FOR EXITING THE EUROPEAN UNION