Devolution and the future UK–EU relationship

Negotiations around the future UK–EU relationship are intensifying, with the UK still intending to leave the transition period at the end of this year – with or without a deal. The devolved administrations have a strong interest in the shape of any future agreement with the EU – and in particularly contentious areas like fisheries. They will also be responsible for implementing parts or preparing for no trade deal in devolved areas. And in Northern Ireland, any UK–EU agreement will have implications for how goods are checked at the Irish Sea border. This event looked at how – and how well – the UK government has engaged the devolved administrations in its talks with the EU, and the interests of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can best be represented in any free trade agreement. Panellists: Jenny Gilruth MSP, Minister for Europe and International Development, Scottish government Jeremy Miles MS, Counsel General and Minister for European Transition, Welsh government David Phinnemore, Professor of European Politics, Queen’s University Belfast Maddy Thimont-Jack, Senior Researcher, Institute for Government The event was chaired by Akash Paun, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government. There will also be an opportunity for audience questions.