The chances of a Brexit deal between Labour and Tories seem small
The differences between the two parties are not wide. The real obstacle to a deal is political
EVEN AS HE announced a Brexit extension from April 12th to October 31st, Donald Tusk, president of the European Council, seemed anxious. “Please do not waste this time,” he begged. As if to justify his concern, MPs in Westminster promptly went on a fortnight’s holiday.
In truth, they needed a rest after weeks of late-night debates and votes. And it is not as if nothing is happening. Theresa May’s government and Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour opposition are meeting, and have even set up working groups on such issues as workers’ rights, the environment and security. Both sides have called the talks constructive. They could even produce a deal.
This article appeared in the Britain section of the print edition under the headline "Hard bargaining"
Britain April 20th 2019
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