Barnier: Johnson, UK gov’t playing political filibuster
Former European Union’s Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier accused on Friday British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his government of “playing a political filibuster” by demanding changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol from the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement.
Barnier told France Inter the “anger” in the United Kingdom is “must be listened to” but stressed the bloc should not renegotiate “something that was negotiated by the same people.” He added the agreement “owes nothing to chance, it’s a lot of work, time and respect” and underlined the priority is to maintain peace on the island of Ireland. Barnier also warned of a new potential conflict in Northern Ireland in case the deal is sidelined.
Earlier this week, the UK requested certain changes were made to the protocol. However, to London’s surprise, the EU responded it will not be renegotiating the agreement.
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