Thank you for contacting me about an extension to the transition period.

I believe that an extension to the transition period will only create more uncertainty for businesses. A future partnership agreement will provide stability in the long-term and encourage investment and trade. The UK left the EU in January this year and the EU’s control over our affairs without us having any say must come to an end.

Negotiations have been continuing throughout the coronavirus outbreak with discussions by videoconference in April, May and June following the first round of talks in March. Face-to-face discussions are now underway. Progress has been made in a number of areas and the differences that remain are largely of a political nature and I am hopeful that these can be resolved soon. The UK is not asking for a unique deal – we are looking for a deal like those the EU has previously struck with other friendly countries like Canada.

The UK left the EU on 31 January with a deal. The UK and the EU have committed legally to reaching an agreement in good faith by the end of the year and the Government is working hard to achieve that outcome which would benefit both sides. The UK has already notified the EU that we will not be requesting an extension. This will focus both sides on the importance of agreeing a future partnership before the end of the year.