Pitella, we won't accept UK EU relationship that lowers standards

AVRUPA/LONDON-S&Ds: we won’t accept UK-EU relationship that lowers standards or undermines our social modelSpeaking during a debate in the European Parliament on the UK’s withdrawal agreement from the EU, S&D Group president Gianni Pittella said:“We are satisfied that sufficient progress has been achieved in the negotiation of the divorce with the UK to move on to the second phase of talks. Significant progress has been made in respect of citizens’ rights, the UK’s commitment to meet its financial liabilities and a workable solution to the Irish border issue. However, as our resolution states we still need clarity over some issues; in particular future partner’s rights, free movement for UK citizens in the EU27, the exact role of the ECJ, and ensuring commitments on Ireland are respected. This deal is just the starting point and not the end of the road.

“We will now begin negotiating the principles for the future relationship between the EU and UK. We are clear that we will not accept a new relationship that lowers standards or undermines the EU’s social model.  Should Prime Minister May be able to preserve her fragile majority and control the extreme fringes of her party, then we are confident we can reach a beneficial agreement and pave the way for a new special relationship between the EU and UK.”