Brexit moving to next phase, says European Council president

Last updated: 15 December 2017, 3:26 pm

European Union leaders have agreed to move Brexit talks on to second phase, says European Council president Donald Tusk.

But the organisation has called for "further clarity" about the relation the United Kingdom hopes to have when the diplomatic divorce is complete.

Details of a transition period after the UK’s March 2019 exit, which is expected to last around two years, are next to be discussed.

Early next year trade and security are due to be tackled.

Donald Tusk broke the news that the 27 EU leaders were happy to move onto phase two after they met in Brussels.

British Prime Minister Theresa May hailed an "important step" on the road.

"The UK and EU have shown what can be achieved with commitment and perseverance on both sides".

But Tusk warned that the next step would be "more challenging and more demanding”, a sentimental echoed by Germany's Angela Merkel.

The chancellor said it would get "even tougher".

The EU has already published its guidelines for phase two of the negotiations.

The three-page document says the UK will remain under the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice and be required to permit freedom of movement during any transition period.

Thank you to Presidents @JunckerEU and @donaldtusk. Today is an important step on the road to delivering a smooth and orderly Brexit and forging our deep and special future partnership. https://t.co/PSaATiA17n

— Theresa May (@theresa_may) December 15, 2017