Dodds calls for joint Welsh push for transition extension

It's vital we extend the transition period to avoid no deal.

aders to sign a joint letter to the UK Government requesting an extension to the Brexit transition period until after the coronavirus crisis has subsided.

Her call comes after EU Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier made clear in a letter to Westminster leaders that an extension to the Brexit transition period is possible.

Jane Dodds said:

“It is clear the UK Government’s plan to have Brexit wrapped up by the end of the year is no longer feasible. Trade negotiations have stalled as Governments across Europe are, rightly, focusing on defeating the Coronavirus.

“The UK Government must grasp the opportunity of an extension to the trade talks that the European Union has offered. This is not about rerunning the debates of the past, it is about ensuring we avoid crashing out without a deal.

"Extending the transition period is the only sensible option and will allow us to focus all our energy on fighting this deadly virus. So, I hope the other party leaders will join me in submitting a joint request for an extension.”

Jane's letter to the other party leaders is as follows:

Dear Mark, Paul and Adam,

I write to invite you to sign a joint letter to the UK Government requesting an extension to the Brexit transition period until after the coronavirus crisis has subsided.

Extending the transition period would be in the national interest. This is not about repeating the Brexit debate, this is about recognising the realities of a global pandemic.

At the critical moment in the negotiations, ministers' attentions are needed elsewhere given the immediate threat to lives and livelihoods.

It would send the strongest message if the Welsh parties could unite in calling for an extension to the transition period until after the coronavirus crisis has been resolved.

The text I propose to send on Monday is below. I hope you will join me in submitting this joint request for an extension to the Prime Minister and look forward to your reply.

Best wishes,

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