You couldn’t negotiate both at the same time, but this whole deadline is entirely self imposed. The only reason we aren’t extending it is because Brexit voters would get upset. That’s it. And we’ve been told for ages a deal will come at the last minute because that’s the best way to negotiate, so whatever deadline was set according to the government this was always the plan.
This whole thing is ludicrous Steve. Of course other countries have their own interests, that’s what we apparently wanted was for countries to work in their own interests. It was supposed to be a massive win for us because we’re so great and they want us to buy cheese or whatever. Now we’re whining that they’re being big meanies and won’t do what we want?
We’ve been saying since day one we wouldn’t hold all the cards in negotiations with the EU. For me that was reason number one to vote Remain: we will be a small country getting kicked about by large trading blocks. Now I’m supposed to get angry at a basic fact of trade we all saw coming?
come on man. You’re a sensible guy. Take the blue tinted specs off for a minute.
As I say no point debating. I’ve also said I’d reserve judgement until final position is delivered (for example I never wanted a ‘hard Brexit’ so my views might well alter depending on the outcome)
You may choose to side with other European nations, however unreasonable their demands might be, on the pretence that we deserve it for voting Brexit, or that’s what you get as a small nation rather than a trading block. I try to keep a relatively balanced view.
If we are that insignificant, why are the EU still pissing about with level playing field discussions, when we have apparently agreed to non regression clauses ?! Merkel appears to have taken a sensible approach throughout ie appears to want a close future relationship, knows its economically and socially beneficial for EU/UK to do so, but doesn’t want us to take the piss (by cutting employment or environmental standards). I’m not sure I can say the same about Macron
edit - just a little ps - most of the country just want this done one way or the other, I personally would’ve extended due to Covid but if you think that matters wouldn’t have gone down to exactly the same last min negations at a future deadline you’re being naive