The negotiating mandate published by the government this morning has laid out an alarming vision for the future where the United Kingdom will diverge from European Union regulations on key issues, risking the possibility that efforts to tackle climate change and unfair competition could be undermined.
Commenting, European Movement Chair Stephen Dorrell said:
“This is the first time since the end of the Second World War that the government has outlined a mandate for negotiations that will not tear down borders to trade but erect them. Despite claiming to be pro-trade and pro-enterprise, this government is actively taking steps to isolate ourselves from our closest neighbours.
Boris Johnson and his government must not be permitted to use Brexit as an opportunity to do away with regulations protecting workers, the environment and standards.
Instead of distancing ourselves from our partners in Europe, we should be working together to tackle the biggest issues of our time. This politics of protectionism only serves to erode our common interests and values.”
