Former EU Commissioner Says Brexit Will End Messily

The transcript discusses the ongoing Brexit negotiations, focusing on the challenges faced by the UK in reaching an agreement with the EU. The negotiations are divided into two phases: settling financial obligations and establishing the status of EU citizens, followed by discussions on future trade arrangements. The UK faces difficulties due to political red lines and internal party dynamics, leading to a lack of progress. Business leaders express concerns about the impact of Brexit on the UK economy. The transcript predicts a messy and prolonged negotiation process, with the possibility of extending the negotiation period beyond the initial two years.

What is the primary focus of phase one in the Brexit negotiations?

• Negotiating fishing rights

• Discussing environmental policies

• Establishing future trade arrangements

• Settling the financial obligations

What is causing the stasis in the Brexit negotiations according to the transcript?

• Economic downturn in the UK

• Political red lines and internal constraints

• Lack of interest from the EU

• Disagreements over fishing rights

Why is it considered unrealistic to complete both phases of Brexit negotiations by the end of 2018?

• The EU is unwilling to negotiate

• The complexity and time required for trade agreements

• The UK has not started negotiations

• There is no interest in a trade deal

What is the main concern of business leaders regarding Brexit?

• The environmental policies post-Brexit

• The future of the fishing industry

• The impact on the British economy and trade arrangements

• The role of the UK in global politics

What is the potential outcome of the Brexit negotiations as predicted in the transcript?

• A messy and prolonged process

• An immediate trade deal

• A quick and smooth agreement

• A complete breakdown of talks

What is the significance of the European single market for Britain?

• It is only important for agriculture

• It is Britain's home market

• It is a minor trading partner

• It has no impact on the UK economy

What is the British government's strategy regarding the negotiation period?

• To focus solely on fishing rights

• To complete negotiations within two years

• To extend the negotiation period indefinitely

• To avoid any negotiations