This report looks at the potential impact of BREXIT on the UK paper industry. In June 2016, the UK as a whole voted by referendum to leave the EU by 52%. (By contrast, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to ‘Remain’). Accordingly, Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty sets out how any member state may leave and that any member state may decide to withdraw from the Union in accordance with its own constitutional requirements. In view of the referendum result, the UK and EU have an initial two year period to finalise a withdrawal agreement. This could be extended by one year, by agreement of both parties. During this period, the UK remains a member of the EU, with all accompanying rights and obligations. The European Commission has appointed a task force, led by French politician Michel Barnier, to negotiate the terms of the UK’s withdrawal on behalf of the EU. The European Council minus the UK (numbering 27 Heads of State), will agree the negotiating guidelines for the Commission.
Any final deal needs to be agreed by both the EU and UK. The UK government must accept it. The EU requires an ‘enhanced qualified majority’, meaning no single member state can veto it.
To find out more about the UK paper industry and BREXIT, download the full report.