December 1, 2017

The sixth round of Brexit negotiations took place on 9 and 10 November 2017. The Briefing Paper explains that this round was unscheduled, but was considered necessary by both sides, given the relative lack of progress in previous rounds and the EU’s condition that “sufficient progress” must be made on citizens’ rights, the financial settlement and the Ireland-Northern Ireland border before starting discussions on future EU-UK relations.

According to the Briefing Paper some progress was made on citizens’ rights and the two sides are seeking political solutions to some outstanding issues. Discussions were about options for resolving issues, such as family reunification, exporting social security benefits and a role for the Court of Justice of the EU. The EU’s approach to mutual recognition of professional qualifications, however, still falls short of the UK’s offer and the EU has not yet included voting rights in local elections within the scope of a future Withdrawal Agreement.

The UK confirmed its commitment to incorporate the agreement on citizens’ rights into UK law, so that EU citizens in the UK will be able to enforce their rights in UK courts.

Technical progress was made on the financial settlement, but the UK Government did not suggest a final figure. The Government is reported to be considering raising its offer to around €40 billion. The Prime Minister has promised that the other 27 EU Member States will not pay more or receive less over the current EU budget plan as a result of Brexit and that the UK will honour commitments made during its period of EU membership.

As for the Northern Ireland border, joint principles were drafted on continuing the Common Travel Area and associated rights. Discussions explored how best to preserve North-South cooperation, the challenges around the border, and how to avoid any physical infrastructure.

There is a commitment to upholding the Good Friday Agreement and a mutual recognition of the need for specific solutions for the unique circumstances of Northern Ireland, but not the creation of a new border inside the UK. To access the Briefing Paper in full, click here.