Today we are told that Britain has agreed there will be 'continued regulatory alignment' between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2017/dec/04/meps-say-uk-has-conceded-on-ireland-border-in-brexit-talks

What does this mean?

It is not the same as saying NI will remain in the Customs Union and the Single Market. It may not even be the same as saying 'no regulatory divergence'.

But it is hugely significant I think. Unless it is prepared to accept regulatory divergence between NI and Britain then it must continue aligned with EU rules on food safety, animal welfare, medical drugs etc.

But what about labour and environmental standards? Is Britain now precluded from the 'race to the bottom' the Brexiteers wanted?

I would be interested in international opinion on this development

Thanks

More Ronaldo Munck's questions See All
Similar questions and discussions