As negotiations said the October 15 deadline for Boris Johnson, EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said the bloc was ready to “seat” from demands that the UK hold the same access to coastal waters and fishing rights in exchange for concessions to the UK’s state subsidies policy.
One of the advanced sources of Express: “It’s one of the reality of Brexit. Let’s say changes that are offensive to us.
Council of Europe President Charles Michel added: “We need important measures for our UK friends in the coming days, not just about fishing, but also about equal arenas and governance.”
“Nothing has been agreed until everything is agreed, and the next few days are very important. This is a moment of truth.”
In return for providing a wiggle room on British fishing rights, Bernier says he is asking Brexit envoy Frost Lord, the UK’s Brexit envoy, to provide peace of mind about the future of UK subsidy policies.
Charles Michelle repeatedly said that she was “important” to compromise, saying that fair fishing trades are “important” but said that a level playing field is “important” to EU member states.
According to the EU, what are the state’s subsidies?
The EU’s basic treaties define state aid (state subsidies). For example, there is a tax benefit that can curb trade between countries, such as a small subset of companies.
This definition is similar to that issued by the WTO, but the differences between the two include the fact that the EU term covers “virtually any kind of government spending” and prohibits potential harm in place of actual harm.
The definition may sound extensive, but there are actually many exemptions. For example, a general block exemption regulation means that spending on community aid, training, small business subsidies, R&D, environmental aid, and public infrastructure aid is all permitted.
Furthermore, the “de Minimus” rule means subsidies of less than 200,000 euros for the third consecutive year, and for one company, it does not require sign-off by the European Commission.
What opposition does Barnier Concessions face?
In fact, the UK’s internal market bill does not directly match EU state subsidies regulations. However, the main opposition is likely to come from EU member states.
Bernier and his colleagues are said to have begun planning to ease opposition from French President Emmanuel Macron.
One source told the Express:
But the first impression is that the French do not retreat any time soon. Certainly, European Affairs Minister Clement Bohne said:
“Our fishermen are not Brexit’s negotiation tips. They don’t have to pay the price for their UK choice.”
He said the deal is “still possible,” but “not at the expense of our fishermen’s interests.”
“A bad deal will be the worst. And we are ready for a no-deal scenario and will not accept a bad compromise,” he added.
Dutch Foreign Minister Steph Bullock said it “will not be late for the transaction,” but reiterated concerns about fishing rights.
He continued: “It is very important for everyone, that France, the Netherlands and Europe, all united, to succeed for our fishermen.”
So, even if Barnier convinces the UK, he may be troubled by turning stubborn EU countries before any deal comes into play. It seems like a job that is envious of.