Danuta Maria Hübner (PPE). – Madam President, now that we are moving toward the future relationship it becomes even clearer that withdrawal of the UK from the Union is not a one—off event and it didn’t happen as some people believe. It is a lengthy, law—based, law—driven process based on both legal and political grounds with far-reaching consequences for the lives of people. We are all involved – institutions, states, citizens and businesses. Yes, unity remains crucial but also listening to each other. The European Parliament will be providing consent at the end of this process. The Committee on Constitutional Affairs (AFCO) responsible for the institutional consequences of withdrawal and consent procedure will continue to be an open platform for hearings, debates, meetings with experts, citizens, all stakeholders concerned.

We have to remember that we have also Article 8 of the Treaty on European Union according to which the Union shall develop a special relationship with neighbouring countries as close as possible in the interest of all our citizens and businesses and founded on the values of the Union, and characterised by close and peaceful relations based on cooperation.

This week will bring the Withdrawal Agreement, including transition agreed among the EU27, endorsed by the European Parliament. The European Council will decide next week on additional guidelines on the future relationship and we will vote on our expectations regarding the future in tomorrow’s resolution. Hopefully all that will allow us to enter into formal negotiations as soon as possible.

It is true that the clock has not stopped ticking but there is also still time for the UK to rethink the red lines.