18 October

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson secured a new Brexit deal with the EU yesterday. While the Prime Minister seems hopeful that the deal will pass through Parliament on Saturday, observers predict a very tight vote. Moreover, it is currently subject to a court challenge in Scotland. It is also unclear whether Boris Johnson will comply with the Benn Act and seek an extension in case the deal does not pass through Parliament.

The new deal focuses solely on a re-writing of the Protocol on Northern Ireland. While Boris Johnson removes the backstop, it leaves Northern Ireland as a part of the EU customs union for at least another 5 years. The deal contains no changes regarding citizen’s rights, even though Michel Barnier hinted that the transition period may be prolonged if both parties agree.

For information on our Brexit services and the potential implications of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU for employers and EEA/Swiss nationals, please contact your assigned lawyer or email EUenquiries@lauradevine.com.