Government publishes Brexit White Paper

The government has published its White Paper setting out its 12 principles detailing policies for the UK’s exit ‘and new partnership’ with the EU.

The document sets out the themes of the government's goals for its negotiations with the EU, including withdrawing from the EU single market and customs union and negotiating a new free trade agreement.

In addition, the White Paper outlines measures to take control of UK laws; strengthen the union between Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, including maintaining a common travel area with the republic of Ireland; controlling immigration; securing rights for EU nationals and UK nationals in the EU; protecting workers’ rights; ensuring free trade with EU markets; securing new trade agreements with other countries; ensuring the UK remains the best place for science and innovations; cooperating in the fight against crime and terrorism; and delivering a smooth exit from the EU.

Formal negotiations can begin once the UK gives notice of Brexit under Article 50, which Prime Minister Theresa May has promised to do by the end of March.