Almost three months after the referendum on our membership of the European Union, the Government is continuing to work towards delivering on the result. The Prime Minister, Theresa May, has been clear that Brexit means Brexit, and that there will be no attempt to remain inside the European Union through the backdoor.
A new, dedicated department has been set up to guide our exit from the EU. The Department for Exiting the European Union is led by the Secretary of State, David Davis MP, and it will work closely with all of the UK’s devolved administrations as well as Parliament to support our negotiations with the EU, helping to secure the best possible deal.
Last week, David Davis updated Parliament on the process of exiting the EU. We are starting this process from a position of economic strength, which means that while the road ahead may not be entirely smooth, we will be able to withstand whatever lies in store. Over the summer, many companies confirmed they will continue to make major investments in the UK; GlaxoSmithKline, Softbank and Siemens all announced their intention to put their faith and money in the British economy. On top of this, countries from around the world made clear their desire to proceed with new trade deals with the UK.
There are four clear principles guiding the process of exiting the EU. Firstly, a national consensus will be built around how we exit the EU, including input from both sides of the debate. Secondly, the national interest will always be put first, acting in good faith with our European partners. Thirdly, the Government will do all it can to minimise the uncertainty this process may bring. Finally, we are committed to Brexit and by the end of the process the UK will be outside the European Union.
In the weeks and months ahead, the Government will continue to build on the positive start. The next formal step will be the triggering of Article 50, after which up to two years of negotiating will ensure our exit from the EU. The negotiation process will not be brief, or straightforward, but the Government will make a success of it ensuring that the referendum result is carried out successfully.