The dreaded scenario of a no-deal Brexit

Guillermo Ximenis

London, Dec 12 (efe-epa).- As negotiations between the United Kingdom and the European Union for their post-Brexit relationship approach Sunday’s deadline, the prevailing uncertainty has rekindled fears of the consequences of a no-deal scenario, which threatens to collapse ports and the pound, as well as trigger a wave of issues in many other areas from December 31.

Both sides have spent the past fortnight in a last-ditch attempt to reach a consensus, but major differences remain, especially in areas relating to trade and fisheries.

There is more to be sorted out than just a free trade agreement that avoids trade tariffs. The UK has been part of the EU’s structures for more than 40 years and its withdrawal from the bloc has forced a rethink of innumerable aspects of Britain’s relationship with the remaining 27 member states.

These are some of the potential consequences of an increasingly likely no-deal Brexit:

TRAVEL

Without a specific aviation agreement, a no-deal Brexit would ground flights between the UK and the EU from 1 January, although there is an expectation in the sector that both sides will establish contingency mechanisms to maintain air links in any scenario.

EU citizens will still be able to use their national identity cards to enter the UK when the transition period ends. Europeans who were resident in the UK before December 31 will be able to continue showing that card at least until 2025, while newcomers will only be able to do so until October.

Due to current regulations because of the coronavirus pandemic, travel from the British Isles to EU states will be restricted to essential trips after the transition period ends, if no other arrangements are agreed upon by both parties.

PORTS AND CUSTOMS