skynewspolitics--2020-12-24--Brexit breakthrough? Only two moments mattered when it came to the crunch issue

When Boris Johnson stood up in the Greenwich Naval Observatory , less than 72 hours after Britain 's formal exit from the European Union on 31 January , he was unequivocal .
The UK had `` ended a debate that has run for three-and-a-half years '' and `` settled '' the long-running question of sovereign authority , he said .
To the sound of a nation 's collective sigh of relief , he joked that he would not `` even mention the name of the controversy except to say that it begins with B '' .
But Brexit never went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the point of our formal exit from the EU , nor for almost all of the 11 months allocated to sort a deal on trading terms , security and other elements of co-operation .
The sense of crisis returned as the year wore on .
In one session of Prime Minister 's Questions at the start of December alone , Mr Johnson referred to Brexit eight times , despite that earlier pledge it had disappeared .
But did it have to be like this ?
There were only two moments this year that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issue at the heart of the dispute , and both were at the start .
The first was on 8 January when new European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen came to the LSE in London to declare the EU was willing to do a `` zero tariff , zero quota '' deal but only if we also signed up to `` zero dumping '' .
This was jargon for allowing tariff-free access after signing up to some form of level playing field : adhering in some form to EU rules on areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers ' rights .
Almost a month later in Greenwich , Mr Johnson set out how far he would go to meet the EU 's demand .
He made clear it was never likely that Britain would subsidise its companies more than EU ones , lower environmental standards below EU ones or degrade rights offered to workers , some of which are already higher than the mandatory minimum standards imposed by Brussels but `` without the compulsion of a treaty '' .
In other words , the entire debate has always been around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in legal form , and which the PM claims we never intend to diverge from , but he does n't want to be bound by future legal agreement or European court .
The last 11 months have been spent trying to square that circle .
David Frost , the UK chief negotiator , and Michel Barnier , his EU counterpart , have spent 10 months letting the other aspects of the deal - covering data protection , transport , financial services , security , energy and the like - fall into place , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ piece could bring down everything .
Now , it looks as if Lord Frost might have succeeded .
In the end , it was framed as a debate about who has more power and taking back control .
But in the final hours , we look set to find out soon it was possible to square the two positions all along .

When Boris Johnson stood up in the Greenwich Naval Observatory, less than 72 hours after Britain's formal exit from the European Union on 31 January, he was unequivocal.
The UK had "ended a debate that has run for three-and-a-half years" and "settled" the long-running question of sovereign authority, he said. To the sound of a nation's collective sigh of relief, he joked that he would not "even mention the name of the controversy except to say that it begins with B".
Live updates on Brexit - follow here
Image: Famous last words: Boris Johnson said after Brexit happened he would try not to mention the B-word
But Brexit never went away. It was not settled at the point of our formal exit from the EU, nor for almost all of the 11 months allocated to sort a deal on trading terms, security and other elements of co-operation.
The sense of crisis returned as the year wore on.
In one session of Prime Minister's Questions at the start of December alone, Mr Johnson referred to Brexit eight times, despite that earlier pledge it had disappeared.
But did it have to be like this?
Image: All eyes are on Downing Street for news of an announcement
There were only two moments this year that mattered when it came to the crunch issue at the heart of the dispute, and both were at the start.
The first was on 8 January when new European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen came to the LSE in London to declare the EU was willing to do a "zero tariff, zero quota" deal but only if we also signed up to "zero dumping".
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This was jargon for allowing tariff-free access after signing up to some form of level playing field: adhering in some form to EU rules on areas such as state aid, environment and workers' rights.
Almost a month later in Greenwich, Mr Johnson set out how far he would go to meet the EU's demand.
Image: The EU wanted the UK to sign up to some form of level playing field
He made clear it was never likely that Britain would subsidise its companies more than EU ones, lower environmental standards below EU ones or degrade rights offered to workers, some of which are already higher than the mandatory minimum standards imposed by Brussels but "without the compulsion of a treaty".
In other words, the entire debate has always been around standards which the EU wants to maintain in legal form, and which the PM claims we never intend to diverge from, but he doesn't want to be bound by future legal agreement or European court.
The last 11 months have been spent trying to square that circle.
David Frost, the UK chief negotiator, and Michel Barnier, his EU counterpart, have spent 10 months letting the other aspects of the deal - covering data protection, transport, financial services, security, energy and the like - fall into place, all along knowing this final large outstanding piece could bring down everything.
Now, it looks as if Lord Frost might have succeeded.
In the end, the technical debate about governance has turned into a debate about who has more power and taking back control.
Only in the final days did we discover it was possible to square the two positions all along.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-23--Brexit talks continue through the night amid hopes of trade deal being agreed

Brexit talks have continued through the night as hopes were raised that a trade deal could finally be on the brink of being agreed .
Sources in London and Brussels told Sky News on Wednesday evening that an agreement could be close .
Eric Mamer , the chief spokesman for the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen , tweeted to say `` Brexit work would continue throughout the night '' .
He added : `` Grabbing some sleep is recommended to all Brexit-watchers at this point .
`` It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ earlier seen being dropped off at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels .
Meanwhile , Sky News understands a call to Boris Johnson 's cabinet took place late last night to update them on the state of play in the talks .
Britain left the EU at the end of January and entered into an 11-month transition period , following EU rules and regulations whilst trying to negotiate a free trade deal by the end of this year .
But a number of sticking points have emerged during the negotiations , raising the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include fishing rights and the so-called `` level playing field '' - measures to prevent what is seen as unfair competition through the lowering of standards or the use of state subsidies .
The PM has acknowledged that a no-deal Brexit `` may be difficult at first '' , but has maintained that the UK would `` prosper mightily '' under such a scenario if it comes to pass .
But opponents say leaving without a deal and consequently having to trade on World Trade Organisation terms from 1 January would cause problems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consumers .
Both sides had set a deadline of mid-October for reaching a trade deal , with the expectation it would then take time for the final version to be scrutinised and voted on .
Parliament needs to ratify a deal if one is agreed , but it has already broken up for Christmas .
However , Sky News has been told MPs could be recalled on 30 December to approve any last-minute agreement .
A senior EU diplomat told the Reuters news agency on Wednesday that a provisional application of a deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states because there is not enough time for the EU Parliament to ratify a deal .

Brexit talks have continued through the night as hopes were raised that a trade deal could finally be on the brink of being agreed.
Sources in London and Brussels told Sky News on Wednesday evening that an agreement could be close.
Eric Mamer, the chief spokesman for the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, tweeted to say "Brexit work would continue throughout the night".
He added: "Grabbing some sleep is recommended to all Brexit-watchers at this point.
"It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning."
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A late night delivery of pizzas was earlier seen being dropped off at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels.
Meanwhile, Sky News understands a call to Boris Johnson's cabinet took place late last night to update them on the state of play in the talks.
Britain left the EU at the end of January and entered into an 11-month transition period, following EU rules and regulations whilst trying to negotiate a free trade deal by the end of this year.
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But a number of sticking points have emerged during the negotiations, raising the prospect of a no-deal Brexit.
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These include fishing rights and the so-called "level playing field" - measures to prevent what is seen as unfair competition through the lowering of standards or the use of state subsidies.
The PM has acknowledged that a no-deal Brexit "may be difficult at first", but has maintained that the UK would "prosper mightily" under such a scenario if it comes to pass.
But opponents say leaving without a deal and consequently having to trade on World Trade Organisation terms from 1 January would cause problems for business and push up prices for consumers.
Both sides had set a deadline of mid-October for reaching a trade deal, with the expectation it would then take time for the final version to be scrutinised and voted on.
Parliament needs to ratify a deal if one is agreed, but it has already broken up for Christmas.
However, Sky News has been told MPs could be recalled on 30 December to approve any last-minute agreement.
A senior EU diplomat told the Reuters news agency on Wednesday that a provisional application of a deal would need to be approved by member states because there is not enough time for the EU Parliament to ratify a deal.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-24--'The best of Britain': Johnson and Starmer thank key workers in Christmas messages

Boris Johnson has thanked British troops for their `` sacrifice and effort '' in a Christmas message to the armed forces - while the Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the pandemic has shown `` the very best of Britain '' .
The prime minister addressed soldiers in a video call to troops in Mali , Estonia , Somalia and Afghanistan , as well those deployed in the UK .
Live updates on coronavirus from UK and around world Mr Johnson said : `` I want to salute all of you , our fantastic armed services , all our men @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that you do .
`` You represent in my view the very best of our country , our number one export , the thing people really want to see around the world . ''
He added : `` It 's not just abroad that this has been an amazing year for the armed services .
So many of you have been responsible for doing extraordinary things here at home , thousands of you helping to deal with the coronavirus pandemic .
`` Building the Nightingales , delivering PPE , testing people , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country to get vaccinated .
`` Thank you for your sacrifice and your effort .
You 're bringing hope and encouragement to the entire country .
I hope you have a wonderful Christmas . ''
Sir Keir used his Christmas message to say the COVID-19 vaccine offers a `` light at the end of the tunnel '' but acknowledged the difficulties many families face with `` an empty space around the Christmas table '' this year .
He also said NHS staff and carers `` will have to step up again , one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urged people to capture the spirit shown during the crisis to `` rebuild a better future for our country '' .
Sir Keir said : `` I want to wish you all a very merry Christmas .
It 's a time to celebrate and come together with our family and friends .
Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' It 's a time for Christians in Britain and across the world to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ .
The values of Christianity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , have shone through this year .
`` In every village , every town and every city , we have seen the very best of Britain - the key workers who have been our country 's rock , the servicemen and servicewomen who have stepped up , and the incredible scientists who have discovered a vaccine . ''
He added : `` I know for many of our key workers they will have to step up again , one more time , this Christmas , as will our armed forces , who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson has thanked British troops for their "sacrifice and effort" in a Christmas message to the armed forces - while the Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the pandemic has shown "the very best of Britain".
The prime minister addressed soldiers in a video call to troops in Mali, Estonia, Somalia and Afghanistan, as well those deployed in the UK.
Live updates on coronavirus from UK and around world
Image: Soldiers worked at a 'pop up' testing centre in Macclesfield in April
Mr Johnson said: "I want to salute all of you, our fantastic armed services, all our men and women in uniform, for everything that you do.
"You represent in my view the very best of our country, our number one export, the thing people really want to see around the world."
He added: "It's not just abroad that this has been an amazing year for the armed services. So many of you have been responsible for doing extraordinary things here at home, thousands of you helping to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.
"Building the Nightingales, delivering PPE, testing people, and now leading the way and helping the country to get vaccinated.
"Thank you for your sacrifice and your effort. You're bringing hope and encouragement to the entire country. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:14 Second new COVID variant 'highly concerning'
Sir Keir used his Christmas message to say the COVID-19 vaccine offers a "light at the end of the tunnel" but acknowledged the difficulties many families face with "an empty space around the Christmas table" this year.
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He also said NHS staff and carers "will have to step up again, one more time, this Christmas" and urged people to capture the spirit shown during the crisis to "rebuild a better future for our country".
Sir Keir said: "I want to wish you all a very merry Christmas. It's a time to celebrate and come together with our family and friends.
Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"It's a time for Christians in Britain and across the world to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The values of Christianity, of generosity, of kindness and hope, have shone through this year.
"In every village, every town and every city, we have seen the very best of Britain - the key workers who have been our country's rock, the servicemen and servicewomen who have stepped up, and the incredible scientists who have discovered a vaccine."
He added: "I know for many of our key workers they will have to step up again, one more time, this Christmas, as will our armed forces, who have deployed here and across the overseas"


skynewspolitics--2020-12-25--'Glad tidings of great joy': PM says trade deal is his Christmas present for the country

Boris Johnson has said the Brexit trade agreement is his Christmas present to the country - serving as `` the feast '' after he promised an `` oven ready deal '' .
The prime minister also used his Christmas message to say he believes the agreement will be the basis of a `` happy and successful '' relationship with the EU .
Speaking in a Christmas message filmed by Downing Street which he shared on Twitter , the prime minister said : `` I have a small present for anybody who may be looking for something to read in that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then clutched the 500-page document and said : `` Glad tidings of great joy , because this is a deal , a deal to give certainty to businesses and travellers , and all investors in our country from next year .
`` A deal with our friends and partners in the EU . ''
Mr Johnson also said the `` oven ready deal '' he promised during the 2019 election was `` just the starter '' and the 500-page agreement was `` the feast '' .
A trade deal was finally struck at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of often bitter negotiations .
It will come into force on 1 January and means Britain has avoided a no-deal departure from the EU .
The legal text has yet to be published , but the prime minister claims it will allow companies `` to do even more business with our European friends '' while `` taking back control of our laws and our destiny '' - echoing a key message of the Vote Leave campaign .
Expected announcements by Britain and the EU were continually delayed throughout Christmas Eve as frantic last-minute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest sticking points - fishing rights - continued to hold up the agreement .
In a Downing Street press conference after the deal was reached , Mr Johnson said : `` We have taken back control of our laws and our destiny .
We have taken back control of every jot and tittle of our regulation in a way that is complete and unfettered .
`` From 1 January we are outside the customs union and outside the single market .
`` British laws will be made solely by the British parliament interpreted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice will come to an end . ''
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has branded it a `` thin '' deal that `` does not provide adequate protections '' for British manufacturing , financial services , creative industries or workers ' rights .
However , he added his party would back it in a vote which is expected to take place in the Commons next week .
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen also struck a more sombre note than Mr Johnson , stating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement .
`` It was a long and winding road , but we have got a good deal to show for it .
`` It is fair , it is a balanced deal , and it is the right and responsible thing to do for both sides . ''
There will be a five-and-a-half year transition period for the fishing industry , and co-operation will continue on issues including climate change , energy , security and transport .
Hauliers have cautiously welcomed the trade deal and warned drivers needed time to adapt to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drivers will face customs checks when entering France from 1 January , while they will also require a permit to access channel crossings in Kent as part of plans to stop the county 's roads being clogged up by potential delays .
The Road Haulage Association said it feared its members will be hit by `` vast amounts of new paperwork '' and called on the government to grant a six-month implementation period from the start of 2021 to allow drivers to get used to the new system .
Eurotunnel operator Getlink said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses and travellers alike '' .
The firm also said it was creating the Eurotunnel Border Pass , a `` digital wallet '' to allow hauliers to store the information needed for their goods to cross the border without having to present physical documents .
Mr Johnson has said the deal covers trade worth around £660 billion and means : • Goods and components can be sold without tariffs and quotas in the EU market .
• It will allow the share of fish in British waters that the UK can catch to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the end of the five-and-a-half year transition .
• Allegations of unfair competition will be judged by an independent third-party arbitration panel with the possibility of a `` proportionate '' response .
The prime minister acknowledged he had been forced to give ground on his demands on fishing and conceded he had not got all he wanted on the vitally important financial services sector .
Parliament will be recalled from its Christmas break to vote on the deal on 30 December , though MPs have been urged not to return in person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unless it is `` absolutely necessary '' .
It is almost certain to be approved but Mr Johnson could face opposition from hardline Brexiteers .
The Tory European Research Group has promised to convene a `` star chamber '' of lawyers to pore over the 500 pages of the deal .
The agreement also has to be approved by the 27 EU members - and their diplomats will receive a Christmas Day briefing from lead negotiator Michel Barnier .
The European Parliament is unlikely to vote on the deal until the new year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be provisional until they give it the green light .

Boris Johnson has said the post-Brexit trade agreement is his Christmas present to the country - serving as "the feast" after he promised an "oven ready deal".
The prime minister also used his Christmas message to say he believes the agreement will be the basis of a "happy and successful" relationship with the EU.
Speaking in a message filmed by Downing Street - which he shared on Twitter, the prime minister said: "I have a small present for anybody who may be looking for something to read in that sleepy post-Christmas lunch moment."
He then clutched the 500-page document and said: "Glad tidings of great joy, because this is a deal, a deal to give certainty to businesses and travellers, and all investors in our country from next year.
"A deal with our friends and partners in the EU."
Mr Johnson also said the "oven ready deal" he promised during the 2019 election was "just the starter" and the 500-page agreement was "the feast".
Image: The prime minister tweeted this image after the deal was reached. Pic: Boris Johnson/Twitter
A trade deal was finally struck at 1:44pm on Christmas Eve following nine months of often bitter negotiations.
It will come into force on 1 January and means Britain has avoided a no-deal departure from the EU.
The legal text has yet to be published, but the prime minister claims it will allow companies "to do even more business with our European friends" while "taking back control of our laws and our destiny" - echoing a key message of the Vote Leave campaign.
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Expected announcements by Britain and the EU were continually delayed throughout Christmas Eve as frantic last-minute talks took place.
One of the biggest sticking points - fishing rights - continued to hold up the agreement.
In a Downing Street press conference, Mr Johnson said: "We have taken back control of our laws and our destiny. We have taken back control of every jot and tittle of our regulation in a way that is complete and unfettered.
"From 1 January we are outside the customs union and outside the single market.
"British laws will be made solely by the British parliament interpreted by British judges sitting in UK courts and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice will come to an end."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:20 'We've taken back control of our laws and our destiny'
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has branded it a "thin" deal that "does not provide adequate protections" for British manufacturing, financial services, creative industries or workers' rights.
However, he added his party would back it in a vote which is expected to take place in the Commons next week.
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen also struck a more sombre note than Mr Johnson, stating: "We have finally found an agreement.
"It was a long and winding road, but we have got a good deal to show for it.
"It is fair, it is a balanced deal, and it is the right and responsible thing to do for both sides."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:29 'Parting is such sweet sorrow' - EU
There will be a five-and-a-half year transition period for the fishing industry, and co-operation will continue on issues including climate change, energy, security and transport.
Hauliers have cautiously welcomed the trade deal and warned drivers needed time to adapt to changes at the French border.
Lorry drivers will face customs checks when entering France from 1 January, while they will also require a permit to access Channel crossings in Kent as part of plans to stop the county's roads being clogged up by potential delays.
The Road Haulage Association said it feared its members would be hit by "vast amounts of new paperwork" and called on the government to grant a six-month implementation period from the start of 2021 to allow drivers to get used to the new system.
Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Eurotunnel operator Getlink said the trade deal would "benefit both businesses and travellers alike".
The firm also said it was creating the Eurotunnel Border Pass, a "digital wallet" to allow hauliers to store the information needed for their goods to cross the border without having to present physical documents.
Mr Johnson has said the deal covers trade worth around £660bn and means:
Goods and components can be sold without tariffs and quotas in the EU market
It will allow the share of fish in British waters that the UK can catch to rise from around half now to two-thirds by the end of the five-and-a-half year transition
Allegations of unfair competition will be judged by an independent third-party arbitration panel with the possibility of a "proportionate" response
The prime minister acknowledged he had been forced to give ground on his demands on fishing and that he had not got all he wanted on the vitally important financial services sector.
Parliament will be recalled from its Christmas break to vote on the deal on 30 December, though MPs have been urged not to return in person to the Commons because of the pandemic unless it is "absolutely necessary".
It is almost certain to be approved but Mr Johnson could face opposition from hardline Brexiteers.
The Tory European Research Group has promised to convene a "star chamber" of lawyers to pore over the 500 pages of the deal.
The agreement also has to be approved by the 27 EU members - and their diplomats will receive a Christmas Day briefing from lead negotiator Michel Barnier.
The European Parliament is unlikely to vote on the deal until the new year, meaning its application will have to be provisional until they give it the green light.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-03--Brexit deal done: Trade agreement finally struck between UK and EU

A long-awaited trade deal between the UK and the EU has been struck just days before the deadline .
The treaty will apply from 1 January 2021 and take over from the arrangements under the transition period , which has seen the UK continue to follow most EU rules since Brexit day .
Announcing the news , Boris Johnson said beating coronavirus was his `` number one national priority '' so he wanted to `` end any extra uncertainty '' by giving the country `` the best possible chance of bouncing back strongly '' next year .
The prime minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do even more business with our European friends '' while `` taking back control of our laws and our destiny '' - echoing a key message of the Vote Leave campaign .
Bidding to sell it to his party and the country , Mr Johnson announced at a Downing Street news conference that `` although of course the arguments with our European friends and partners were sometimes fierce , this is , I believe , a good deal for the whole of Europe '' .
`` This country will remain culturally , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attached to Europe , '' he added .
Asked by Sky News if he could guarantee there will not be any short-term disruption when the deal comes into effect on 1 January 2021 , Mr Johnson said in the immediate aftermath `` yes ... there are things that we have to get right , processes that maybe people have to do that they need to be aware of '' .
Parliament , which has broken up for Christmas , will be reconvened on 30 December to let MPs and peers ratify the agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he will back the deal , meaning it is almost guaranteed to pass , but argued it is a `` thin agreement '' and not what the government promised as it does not provide enough protections for manufacturing , workers ' rights or financial services .
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also written to the European Council president , European Parliament president and German chancellor to formally request approval of the deal .
In her own address , Ms von der Leyen said it had been a `` long and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal was `` right and responsible '' .
She added Brussels would `` continue cooperating with the UK in all areas of mutual interest '' such as climate change , transport and security - but that `` together we still achieve more than we do apart '' .
On the key issue of fishing , Ms von der Leyen revealed the deal had guaranteed five-and-a-half years of `` full predictability for our fishing communities '' .
She said the UK 's chief negotiators had been `` tough but fair '' and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In her final comments , Ms von der Leyen said : `` Today , I only feel quiet satisfaction and , frankly speaking , relief .
`` I know this is a difficult day for some , and to our friends in the UK I want to say : Parting is such sweet sorrow .
`` But to use a line from T.S .
Eliot , what we call the beginning is often the end and to make an end is to make a beginning .
`` So to all Europeans I say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind , our future is made in Europe . ''
Both sides had set a deadline of mid-October for reaching a trade deal , with the expectation it would then take time for the final version to be scrutinised and voted on .
A senior EU diplomat told the Reuters news agency earlier that a provisional application of the deal will need to be approved by member states because there is not enough time for the EU Parliament to ratify the agreement .
There were fears the talks had collapsed when they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Since then , progress - or the lack of it - was only addressed in brief statements from London and Brussels .
After weeks of diplomatic shuttling between the two cities , including crisis talks between Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen over dinner , the fate of negotiations continued to hang in the balance .
The prime minister said earlier this month that `` things are looking difficult '' , while the EU 's negotiator Michel Barnier said that `` there is a chance of getting an agreement but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ narrow '' .
The final stumbling blocks were fishing rights , the `` level playing field '' measures aimed at preventing the UK from undercutting the EU on standards and state subsidies , and the way that any trade deal disputes would be resolved .
But now a breakthrough has been made .
It means that barring any last-minute surprises , Britain will exit the transition period with an agreement in place .
Mr Barnier said `` the clock is no longer ticking '' and that for him , it was `` a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Over these four and a half years , the EU has shown unity ...
It has been a great honour for me to be part of this European unity , '' he added .
David Cameron , the Conservative prime minister who called the EU referendum in 2016 , said : `` It 's good to end a difficult year with some positive news .
`` Trade deal is very welcome - and a vital step in building a new relationship with the EU as friends , neighbours and partners .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
And his successor , Theresa May , tweeted : `` Very welcome news that the UK & EU have reached agreement on the terms of a deal - one that provides confidence to business and helps keep trade flowing .
`` Looking forward to seeing the detail in the coming days . ''
Nigel Farage , the former Brexit Party and UKIP leader , said the deal is `` not perfect '' and he 's `` worried we 're going to be too closely aligned to EU rules '' because the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ step out of lines without them having the threat of imposing immediate tariffs '' .
`` That detail , we 'll discover in the next couple of days , '' he said , but added : `` Are we far better off than we were five years ago ?
Absolutely . ''
Failure to reach a deal would have seen tariffs imposed on UK exports to the EU - its biggest trading partner - on World Trade Organisation terms , and could also have increased bureaucracy .
But some disruption and teething problems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and governments adapt to the new arrangements that will be in place between the UK and EU .

A long-awaited trade deal between the UK and the EU has been struck just days before the deadline.
The treaty will apply from 1 January 2021 and take over from the arrangements under the transition period, which has seen the UK continue to follow most EU rules since Brexit day.
Announcing the news, Boris Johnson said beating coronavirus was his "number one national priority" so he wanted to "end any extra uncertainty" by giving the country "the best possible chance of bouncing back strongly" next year.
Follow live updates and reaction to Brexit breakthrough
Image: Parliament will be recalled on 30 December to ratify the agreement
The prime minister promised the deal will allow companies "to do even more business with our European friends" while "taking back control of our laws and our destiny" - echoing a key message of the Vote Leave campaign.
Bidding to sell it to his party and the country, Mr Johnson announced at a Downing Street news conference that "although of course the arguments with our European friends and partners were sometimes fierce, this is, I believe, a good deal for the whole of Europe".
"This country will remain culturally, emotionally, historically, strategically, geologically attached to Europe," he added.
Asked by Sky News if he could guarantee there will not be any short-term disruption when the deal comes into effect on 1 January 2021, Mr Johnson said in the immediate aftermath "yes... there are things that we have to get right, processes that maybe people have to do that they need to be aware of".
Parliament, which has broken up for Christmas, will be reconvened on 30 December to let MPs and peers ratify the agreement.
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Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer announced he will back the deal, meaning it is almost guaranteed to pass, but argued it is a "thin agreement" and not what the government promised as it does not provide enough protections for manufacturing, workers' rights or financial services.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Starmer: 'Up against no deal, we accept this deal'
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also written to the European Council president, European Parliament president and German chancellor to formally request approval of the deal.
In her own address, Ms von der Leyen said it had been a "long and winding road" - but that striking a deal was "right and responsible".
She added Brussels would "continue cooperating with the UK in all areas of mutual interest" such as climate change, transport and security - but that "together we still achieve more than we do apart".
On the key issue of fishing, Ms von der Leyen revealed the deal had guaranteed five-and-a-half years of "full predictability for our fishing communities".
She said the UK's chief negotiators had been "tough but fair" and the talks had been "successful".
Image: The deal will give certainty to businesses about their trading arrangements
In her final comments, Ms von der Leyen said: "Today, I only feel quiet satisfaction and, frankly speaking, relief.
"I know this is a difficult day for some, and to our friends in the UK I want to say: Parting is such sweet sorrow.
"But to use a line from T.S. Eliot, what we call the beginning is often the end and to make an end is to make a beginning.
"So to all Europeans I say: It is time to leave Brexit behind, our future is made in Europe."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:10 'Parting is such sweet sorrow,' says von der Leyen
Both sides had set a deadline of mid-October for reaching a trade deal, with the expectation it would then take time for the final version to be scrutinised and voted on.
A senior EU diplomat told the Reuters news agency earlier that a provisional application of the deal will need to be approved by member states because there is not enough time for the EU Parliament to ratify the agreement.
There were fears the talks had collapsed when they were paused earlier this month by both sides.
Since then, progress - or the lack of it - was only addressed in brief statements from London and Brussels.
After weeks of diplomatic shuttling between the two cities, including crisis talks between Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen over dinner, the fate of negotiations continued to hang in the balance.
The prime minister said earlier this month that "things are looking difficult", while the EU's negotiator Michel Barnier said that "there is a chance of getting an agreement but the path to such an agreement is very narrow".
The final stumbling blocks were fishing rights, the "level playing field" measures aimed at preventing the UK from undercutting the EU on standards and state subsidies, and the way that any trade deal disputes would be resolved.
But now a breakthrough has been made.
It means that barring any last-minute surprises, Britain will exit the transition period with an agreement in place.
Mr Barnier said "the clock is no longer ticking" and that for him, it was "a day of relief tinged with sadness".
"Over these four and a half years, the EU has shown unity... It has been a great honour for me to be part of this European unity," he added.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:52 Barnier: 'A day of relief tinged by sadness'
David Cameron, the Conservative prime minister who called the EU referendum in 2016, said: "It's good to end a difficult year with some positive news.
"Trade deal is very welcome - and a vital step in building a new relationship with the EU as friends, neighbours and partners. Many congratulations to the UK negotiating team."
And his successor, Theresa May, tweeted: "Very welcome news that the UK & EU have reached agreement on the terms of a deal - one that provides confidence to business and helps keep trade flowing.
"Looking forward to seeing the detail in the coming days."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:06 Both sides of Irish border react to deal
Nigel Farage, the former Brexit Party and UKIP leader, said the deal is "not perfect" and he's "worried we're going to be too closely aligned to EU rules" because the UK "will not be able to step out of lines without them having the threat of imposing immediate tariffs".
"That detail, we'll discover in the next couple of days," he said, but added: "Are we far better off than we were five years ago? Absolutely."
Failure to reach a deal would have seen tariffs imposed on UK exports to the EU - its biggest trading partner - on World Trade Organisation terms, and could also have increased bureaucracy.
But some disruption and teething problems are still likely as business, citizens and governments adapt to the new arrangements that will be in place between the UK and EU.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-24--Brexit breakthrough: Only two moments mattered when it came to the crunch issue

When Boris Johnson stood up in the Greenwich Naval Observatory , less than 72 hours after Britain 's formal exit from the European Union on 31 January , he was unequivocal .
The UK had `` ended a debate that has run for three-and-a-half years '' and `` settled '' the long-running question of sovereign authority , he said .
To the sound of a nation 's collective sigh of relief , he joked that he would not `` even mention the name of the controversy except to say that it begins with B '' .
But Brexit never went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the point of our formal exit from the EU , nor for almost all of the 11 months allocated to sort a deal on trading terms , security and other elements of co-operation .
The sense of crisis returned as the year wore on .
In one session of Prime Minister 's Questions at the start of December alone , Mr Johnson referred to Brexit eight times , despite that earlier pledge it had disappeared .
But did it have to be like this ?
There were only two moments this year that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issue at the heart of the dispute , and both were at the start .
The first was on 8 January when new European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen came to the LSE in London to declare the EU was willing to do a `` zero tariff , zero quota '' deal but only if we also signed up to `` zero dumping '' .
This was jargon for allowing tariff-free access after signing up to some form of level playing field : adhering in some form to EU rules on areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers ' rights .
Almost a month later in Greenwich , Mr Johnson set out how far he would go to meet the EU 's demand .
He made clear it was never likely that Britain would subsidise its companies more than EU ones , lower environmental standards below EU ones or degrade rights offered to workers , some of which are already higher than the mandatory minimum standards imposed by Brussels but `` without the compulsion of a treaty '' .
In other words , the entire debate has always been around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in legal form , and which the PM claims we never intend to diverge from , but he does n't want to be bound by future legal agreement or European court .
The last 11 months have been spent trying to square that circle .
David Frost , the UK chief negotiator , and Michel Barnier , his EU counterpart , have spent 10 months letting the other aspects of the deal - covering data protection , transport , financial services , security , energy and the like - fall into place , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ piece could bring down everything .
Now , it looks as if Lord Frost might have succeeded .
In the end , the technical debate about governance has turned into a debate about who has more power and taking back control .
Only in the final days did we discover it was possible to square the two positions all along .


skynewspolitics--2020-12-24--After all these years, a friendly partnership becomes a slightly awkward divorce

So how will Europe feel about the UK finally walking out of the EU door ?
Well , it will mean different things to different countries , and there will be plenty who are relieved that the saga of Brexit negotiations has come to an end .
They will be satisfied that a deal has been done but , across the EU , just about nobody will be truly happy to see the UK go .
There are very few things that unite this continent .
You ca n't really generalise about its people , its culture , its politics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is pretty commonplace .
During these negotiations , I 've chatted to diplomats from north , south , east and west , and none of them wanted us to leave the EU .
So the first thing we leave in our wake is a sense of sadness .
Nobody in Brussels is pretending that the European Union is better because Britain has left , and the regret has seeped out of its leaders for years now .
When I first moved to Brussels , about 18 months ago , people used to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off and welcoming Britain back to the family .
`` Do you really think Brexit will happen ? ''
I was asked , not long after moving in .
When I said that yes , I did think we would leave , the response was one of mild shock , sadness and regret .
Now , there are layers of weariness and irritation blended in with that regret .
Brexit negotiations have done little to improve Britain 's standing within Brussels , even if Lord David Frost has his admirers as a quietly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Internal Market Bill , for instance , made a deep impression on Brussels diplomats .
It was , according to one , a sign that `` Britain 's reputation for prizing the law above all is n't quite as robust as we had always thought '' .
Of course , we 've always been the awkward member of the pack .
They 've always known that we were an island nation , uneasy in our relationship with the continent of Europe and dubious about the spectre of a federal superstate .
But in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , through rebates , opt-outs and political deals , the wound had been dressed , if not healed .
That the EU had recognised the UK as a special case - the country that would never be expected to join the single currency , or stick to every rule .
And then came the Brexit vote , and the reckoning that followed .
Other anti-establishment parties flourished , either because of inspiration or coincidence , and anti-EU sentiment seemed to flower across Europe .
But then , it fell again , and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ membership has risen , across the bloc , since the 2016 referendum .
On Nigel Farage 's last day at the European Parliament , he confidently told me that the UK 's departure would be the precipitant for others to depart .
So far , there is not much sign of that happening .
That is n't to say it ca n't happen .
One diplomat told me he was nervous that if Britain prospered after Brexit , then `` exit '' politicians in his own country would be re-energised .
But , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find anyone who thinks that the UK has blazed a trail that their voters want to follow .
That is n't to say that the EU is a particularly happy ship at the moment .
It is n't .
First , it was split by proposals to offer financial support to countries badly hit by COVID-19 ( notably Italy and Spain ) and now its budgetary plans are being halted by the opposition of Poland and Hungary , themselves angry about new laws designed to counteract authoritarianism .
It is , ironically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that often used to end with a piece of British diplomatic alchemy .
For a long time , the UK was seen as being a step apart from the melee - a bulwark between the combined hopes of the smaller nations , the pragmatism of the middle ranks , and the double-act of France and Germany .
`` That is the biggest problem for us , '' said one senior diplomat from an eastern European nation .
`` Not the money , not fishing , but diplomacy .
You used to stand up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Instead , there are signs of the EU fracturing .
Poland and Hungary have blocked the annual budget in a dispute over `` rule of law '' regulations designed to curtail authoritarianism ; north and south argued over how to finance the COVID recovery plan .
And in the midst of this , Britain leaves the EU stage .
It can be easy for a Briton to lose sight of the symbolism of that , but ponder what the UK is - a strong economic partner , with historic links around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ permanent seat on the UN 's security council ; a NATO member , with significant armed forces ; a cultural powerhouse , whose language is still the most widely spoken in Europe .
You do n't wave goodbye to that easily , and nor do you want to lose touch .
Nor , for that matter , will the UK want to cold-shoulder a trading bloc on its doorstep - a union that is comprised of most of the countries we know best .
So , like a good divorce , both sides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friendship .
And , like any divorce , that 's going to feel really awkward at times .

So how will Europe feel about the UK finally walking out of the EU door?
Well, it will mean different things to different countries, and there will be plenty who are relieved that the saga of Brexit negotiations has come to an end.
Follow live updates and reaction to Brexit breakthrough
Image: 'Parting is such sweet sorrow': European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said
They will be satisfied that a deal has been done but, across the EU, just about nobody will be truly happy to see the UK go.
There are very few things that unite this continent. You can't really generalise about its people, its culture, its politics or attitudes but an antipathy to Brexit is pretty commonplace. During these negotiations, I've chatted to diplomats from north, south, east and west, and none of them wanted us to leave the EU.
So the first thing we leave in our wake is a sense of sadness. Nobody in Brussels is pretending that the European Union is better because Britain has left, and the regret has seeped out of its leaders for years now.
When I first moved to Brussels, about 18 months ago, people used to make affectionate jokes about calling the whole thing off and welcoming Britain back to the family. "Do you really think Brexit will happen?" I was asked, not long after moving in. When I said that yes, I did think we would leave, the response was one of mild shock, sadness and regret.
Now, there are layers of weariness and irritation blended in with that regret. Brexit negotiations have done little to improve Britain's standing within Brussels, even if Lord David Frost has his admirers as a quietly effective diplomat. The row over the Internal Market Bill, for instance, made a deep impression on Brussels diplomats. It was, according to one, a sign that "Britain's reputation for prizing the law above all isn't quite as robust as we had always thought".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 9:48 'We have taken back control of our destiny'
Of course, we've always been the awkward member of the pack. They've always known that we were an island nation, uneasy in our relationship with the continent of Europe and dubious about the spectre of a federal superstate.
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But in Brussels, there was a feeling that, through rebates, opt-outs and political deals, the wound had been dressed, if not healed. That the EU had recognised the UK as a special case - the country that would never be expected to join the single currency, or stick to every rule.
And then came the Brexit vote, and the reckoning that followed. Other anti-establishment parties flourished, either because of inspiration or coincidence, and anti-EU sentiment seemed to flower across Europe.
But then, it fell again, and it has kept falling. Support for EU membership has risen, across the bloc, since the 2016 referendum. On Nigel Farage's last day at the European Parliament, he confidently told me that the UK's departure would be the precipitant for others to depart. So far, there is not much sign of that happening.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:36 'Today there is relief, tinged with sadness'
That isn't to say it can't happen. One diplomat told me he was nervous that if Britain prospered after Brexit, then "exit" politicians in his own country would be re-energised. But, for the moment, it's hard to find anyone who thinks that the UK has blazed a trail that their voters want to follow.
That isn't to say that the EU is a particularly happy ship at the moment. It isn't. First, it was split by proposals to offer financial support to countries badly hit by COVID-19 (notably Italy and Spain) and now its budgetary plans are being halted by the opposition of Poland and Hungary, themselves angry about new laws designed to counteract authoritarianism.
It is, ironically, precisely the sort of inter-Europe punch-up that often used to end with a piece of British diplomatic alchemy. For a long time, the UK was seen as being a step apart from the melee - a bulwark between the combined hopes of the smaller nations, the pragmatism of the middle ranks, and the double-act of France and Germany.
Image: Boris Johnson and EU leaders celebrated making the deal over Zoom. Pic: Number 10
"That is the biggest problem for us," said one senior diplomat from an eastern European nation. "Not the money, not fishing, but diplomacy. You used to stand up for us. Now nobody will."
Instead, there are signs of the EU fracturing. Poland and Hungary have blocked the annual budget in a dispute over "rule of law" regulations designed to curtail authoritarianism; north and south argued over how to finance the COVID recovery plan.
And in the midst of this, Britain leaves the EU stage. It can be easy for a Briton to lose sight of the symbolism of that, but ponder what the UK is - a strong economic partner, with historic links around the world; a political player with a permanent seat on the UN's security council; a NATO member, with significant armed forces; a cultural powerhouse, whose language is still the most widely spoken in Europe.
You don't wave goodbye to that easily, and nor do you want to lose touch. Nor, for that matter, will the UK want to cold-shoulder a trading bloc on its doorstep - a union that is comprised of most of the countries we know best.
So, like a good divorce, both sides will aim to go from partnership to friendship. And, like any divorce, that's going to feel really awkward at times.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-24--Instant reactions from UK and around the world to post-Brexit deal breakthrough

Boris Johnson 's post-Brexit trade deal has divided opinion - with some heralding it as a big achievement and others arguing it breaks promises .
While the agreement runs to hundreds of pages and is being combed through , here are the instant reactions from senior figures in the UK and abroad .
Labour will back the Brexit deal because the alternative is to support no deal , Sir Keir Starmer announced on Thursday .
But he called it a `` thin agreement '' that `` does not provide adequate protections '' for British manufacturing , financial services , creative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is not the deal the government promised - far from it , '' he explained , adding there are `` serious questions about the government 's preparedness '' for the new arrangements to come into force from 1 January 2021 .
`` A better deal could have been negotiated , '' Sir Keir said , and he warned `` the British people would never forgive us if we enabled a no-deal outcome '' .
And he ruled out abstaining , saying : `` Leadership is about taking the tough decisions in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a serious , responsible opposition and a government-in-waiting . ''
The Scottish first minister said : `` It beggars belief that in the midst of a pandemic and economic recession Scotland has been forced out of the EU Single Market and Customs Union with all the damage to jobs that will bring . ''
She added that `` a deal is better than no deal '' but `` just because , at the eleventh hour , the UK government has decided to abandon the idea of a no-deal outcome , it should not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chosen a hard Brexit , stripping away so many of the benefits of EU membership '' .
It appears major promises made by Boris Johnson `` have been broken '' - particularly on fisheries , Ms Sturgeon also claimed .
In a statement , she added : `` Scotland did not vote for any of this and our position is clearer than ever .
`` Scotland now has the right to choose its own future as an independent country and once more regain the benefits of EU membership . ''
A crucial buy-in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fresh president , who wrote in a tweet that `` European unity and firmness have paid off '' .
He added : `` The agreement with the UK is essential to protect our citizens , our fishermen , our producers .
We will make sure it does .
`` Europe is moving forward and can look to the future , united , sovereign and strong . ''
Arlene Foster : Sensible deal is most favourable outcome for Northern Ireland Across in Northern Ireland , First Minister Arlene Foster said she had consistently pushed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement , the DUP leader whose party propped up the Conservative government led by Theresa May for two years , said she would `` examine the details both of the trade deal itself as well as other issues such as security where agreement will be particularly important '' .
`` Given the government 's Northern Ireland protocol , a sensible trade deal between the UK and the EU was always the most favourable outcome for Northern Ireland , '' Ms Foster added .
`` Moving forward , we will continue to work to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which arise from the UK 's exit from the EU . ''
Micheal Martin : Deal minimises negative consequences of Brexit but will disappoint fishing communities In the Republic of Ireland , the country 's prime minister said the agreement represents `` a good compromise and a balanced outcome '' .
But he claimed `` there is no such thing as a 'good Brexit ' for Ireland '' so he had `` worked hard to minimise the negative consequences '' , resulting in a deal that `` is the least bad version of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Our fishing communities will be disappointed with the outcome , '' he admitted .
`` But compared with the prospect of no deal , which would have seen them completely excluded from British waters , the negotiators have worked hard to minimise the damage . ''
Thursday has been `` a better day than many that we have been through in 2020 , '' Mr Martin added , saying the treaty will `` significantly lessen the negative economic impacts of Brexit '' and `` come as a great relief to many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vital to building a new relationship with the EU Breaking the long periods of silence he has tried to keep since leaving Downing Street , the former Tory prime minister who called the 2016 referendum said it was `` good to end a difficult year with some positive news '' .
In a brief statement , he said the trade deal `` is very welcome - and a vital step in building a new relationship with the EU as friends , neighbours and partners '' .
He added : `` Many congratulations to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May : Welcome news provides confidence - let 's see the detail Boris Johnson 's predecessor who was ousted over her EU divorce deal also only had brief words on Thursday She tweeted : `` Very welcome news that the UK & EU have reached agreement on the terms of a deal - one that provides confidence to business and helps keep trade flowing .
`` Looking forward to seeing the detail in the coming days . ''
US ambassador : New opportunities now available with America It 's no secret that outgoing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Brexit , so his ambassador to the UK Woody Johnson has welcomed today 's news .
`` Congratulations to the UK and EU on striking a Brexit deal , '' he tweeted .
`` So many new US-UK opportunities to pursue ! ''
Nigel Farage : It 's not perfect , but Brexit makes UK better off The Brexit Party leader said the deal is `` not perfect '' and he 's `` worried we 're going to be too closely aligned to EU rules '' because the UK `` will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without them having the threat of imposing immediate tariffs '' .
`` That detail , we 'll discover in the next couple of days , '' he told Sky News , but added : `` Are we far better off than we were five years ago ?
Absolutely . ''
British Chamber of Commerce : Significant new barriers going up to trade from 1 January Adam Marshall is glad there is a deal , but less optimistic about how good it will be for business .
`` Let us be absolutely clear , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Businesses trading between the UK and EU are facing significant , new non-tariff barriers to trade from 1st January .
`` While the agreement of a zero-tariff UK-EU deal is welcome , it does not remove many non-tariff barriers & frictions . ''
National Federation of Fishermen 's Organisations : Frustration and anger about concessions Barrie Deas , chief executive of the group , said : `` In the end it was clear that Boris Johnson wanted an overall trade deal and was willing to sacrifice fishing .
`` The broad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant concessions on fish in order to secure a trade deal .
`` I think the industry will be extremely disappointed .
`` We have secured increases in quota from the EU but they do n't come anywhere close to what our entitlement is in international law .
`` So I think there will be frustration and anger across the industry about that . ''

Boris Johnson's post-Brexit trade deal has divided opinion - with some heralding it as a big achievement and others arguing it breaks promises.
While the agreement runs to hundreds of pages and is being combed through, here are the instant reactions from senior figures in the UK and abroad.
Sir Keir Starmer: Thin agreement isn't what was promised
Image: Sir Keir says he will vote for the agreeement
Labour will back the Brexit deal because the alternative is to support no deal, Sir Keir Starmer announced on Thursday.
But he called it a "thin agreement" that "does not provide adequate protections" for British manufacturing, financial services, creative industries or workers' rights.
"It is not the deal the government promised - far from it," he explained, adding there are "serious questions about the government's preparedness" for the new arrangements to come into force from 1 January 2021.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Starmer: 'Up against no deal, we accept this deal'
"A better deal could have been negotiated," Sir Keir said, and he warned "the British people would never forgive us if we enabled a no-deal outcome".
And he ruled out abstaining, saying: "Leadership is about taking the tough decisions in the national interest. It is about being a serious, responsible opposition and a government-in-waiting."
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Nicola Sturgeon: Promises broken should give Scotland fresh independence chance
Image: The SNP leader used the moment to push for independence
The Scottish first minister said: "It beggars belief that in the midst of a pandemic and economic recession Scotland has been forced out of the EU Single Market and Customs Union with all the damage to jobs that will bring."
She added that "a deal is better than no deal" but "just because, at the eleventh hour, the UK government has decided to abandon the idea of a no-deal outcome, it should not distract from the fact that they have chosen a hard Brexit, stripping away so many of the benefits of EU membership".
It appears major promises made by Boris Johnson "have been broken" - particularly on fisheries, Ms Sturgeon also claimed.
In a statement, she added: "Scotland did not vote for any of this and our position is clearer than ever.
"Scotland now has the right to choose its own future as an independent country and once more regain the benefits of EU membership."
Emmanuel Macron: This protects EU citizens and businesses
Image: Emmanuel Macron talked up the benefits for France and the EU
A crucial buy-in of the deal was given by the French president, who wrote in a tweet that "European unity and firmness have paid off".
He added: "The agreement with the UK is essential to protect our citizens, our fishermen, our producers. We will make sure it does.
"Europe is moving forward and can look to the future, united, sovereign and strong."
Arlene Foster: Sensible deal is most favourable outcome for Northern Ireland
Image: Arlene Foster wants to scrutinise areas including like security
Across in Northern Ireland, First Minister Arlene Foster said she had consistently pushed for a deal.
In a short statement, the DUP leader whose party propped up the Conservative government led by Theresa May for two years, said she would "examine the details both of the trade deal itself as well as other issues such as security where agreement will be particularly important".
"Given the government's Northern Ireland protocol, a sensible trade deal between the UK and the EU was always the most favourable outcome for Northern Ireland," Ms Foster added.
"Moving forward, we will continue to work to seize the opportunities and address the challenges which arise from the UK's exit from the EU."
Micheal Martin: Deal minimises negative consequences of Brexit but will disappoint fishing communities
Image: Ireland's PM said its fishing community would be disappointed
In the Republic of Ireland, the country's prime minister said the agreement represents "a good compromise and a balanced outcome".
But he claimed "there is no such thing as a 'good Brexit' for Ireland" so he had "worked hard to minimise the negative consequences", resulting in a deal that "is the least bad version of Brexit possible, given current circumstances".
"Our fishing communities will be disappointed with the outcome," he admitted.
"But compared with the prospect of no deal, which would have seen them completely excluded from British waters, the negotiators have worked hard to minimise the damage."
Thursday has been "a better day than many that we have been through in 2020," Mr Martin added, saying the treaty will "significantly lessen the negative economic impacts of Brexit" and "come as a great relief to many".
David Cameron: Deal is vital to building a new relationship with the EU
Image: David Cameron stepped down after the 2016 referendum
Breaking the long periods of silence he has tried to keep since leaving Downing Street, the former Tory prime minister who called the 2016 referendum said it was "good to end a difficult year with some positive news".
In a brief statement, he said the trade deal "is very welcome - and a vital step in building a new relationship with the EU as friends, neighbours and partners".
He added: "Many congratulations to the UK negotiating team."
Theresa May: Welcome news provides confidence - let's see the detail
Image: Theresa May said she wanted to see the detail
Boris Johnson's predecessor who was ousted over her EU divorce deal also only had brief words on Thursday
She tweeted: "Very welcome news that the UK & EU have reached agreement on the terms of a deal - one that provides confidence to business and helps keep trade flowing.
"Looking forward to seeing the detail in the coming days."
US ambassador: New opportunities now available with America
Image: Woody Johnson congratulated Boris Johnson
It's no secret that outgoing US President Donald Trump was a fan of Brexit, so his ambassador to the UK Woody Johnson has welcomed today's news.
"Congratulations to the UK and EU on striking a Brexit deal," he tweeted. "So many new US-UK opportunities to pursue!"
Nigel Farage: It's not perfect, but Brexit makes UK better off
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 10:26 Farage 'worried' about trade deal
The Brexit Party leader said the deal is "not perfect" and he's "worried we're going to be too closely aligned to EU rules" because the UK "will not be able to step out of lines without them having the threat of imposing immediate tariffs".
"That detail, we'll discover in the next couple of days," he told Sky News, but added: "Are we far better off than we were five years ago? Absolutely."
British Chamber of Commerce: Significant new barriers going up to trade from 1 January
Image: The BCC said a deal was 'welcome'
Adam Marshall is glad there is a deal, but less optimistic about how good it will be for business.
"Let us be absolutely clear," the head of the BCC said. "Businesses trading between the UK and EU are facing significant, new non-tariff barriers to trade from 1st January.
"While the agreement of a zero-tariff UK-EU deal is welcome, it does not remove many non-tariff barriers & frictions."
National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations: Frustration and anger about concessions
Image: A fishing group said the UK had made 'significant concessions'
Barrie Deas, chief executive of the group, said: "In the end it was clear that Boris Johnson wanted an overall trade deal and was willing to sacrifice fishing.
"The broad feeling is that the UK has made significant concessions on fish in order to secure a trade deal.
"I think the industry will be extremely disappointed.
"We have secured increases in quota from the EU but they don't come anywhere close to what our entitlement is in international law.
"So I think there will be frustration and anger across the industry about that."


skynewspolitics--2020-12-24--Here's what we know so far about what's in the Brexit deal

Now the UK and European Union have reached a deal on post-Brexit trade , many will be keen to see the fine print and what it means for them .
There is still much that is not yet clear , but here 's what we know so far about what lies ahead on 1 January when the transition period ends .
Having found it a sticking point during negotiations , the UK ended up giving some ground on how much access EU fisherman will have to British waters .
There will be a five-and-a-half-year transition period allowing EU vessels to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ although the UK will obtain two-thirds of its fish after this period .
Boris Johnson said this would see Britain 's share of UK fish rise `` substantially '' .
The deal is worth £668bn a year and means UK goods can be sold without tariffs or quotas in the EU market - a victory for British producers .
The EU feared that Britain could have an unfair advantage over member states in terms of state subsidies and standards .
An agreement was reached that meant the UK will not have to follow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ principles .
Brussels said this agreement included mechanisms that will `` ensure that rights of businesses , consumers and individuals are respected '' .
After 1 January , UK laws `` will be made solely by the British parliament interpreted by British judges sitting in UK courts and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice will come to an end '' .
The EU has said the agreement will ensure passenger rights and transport safety are not undermined .
But the deal still means British holidaymakers will feel a number of impacts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when travelling to the EU .
When the transition period ends , British passports will have six months left on them and they will have to be less than 10 years old for people to visit EU countries .
UK travellers will still be able to visit most EU countries without a visa and can stay for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period - with the exception of Bulgaria , Croatia , Cyprus and Romania , which do not count towards the allowance .
From 2022 , UK nationals will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to visit many EU countries and the European Health Insurance Card will no longer be valid .
There will also be a new system for bringing pets on holiday , with people having to apply for an animal health certificate 10 days before travelling .
Leaving the EU means the UK will have to automatically forfeit its membership of Europol , Eurojust , the European Arrest Warrant and data-sharing agreements such as the Schengen Information System .
But the prime minister said the new deal `` protects our police co-operation , protects our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the European continent in the way we have done for many years '' .
It is still feared losing access to these data-sharing agreements will make the UK less secure , but the European Commission has confirmed there are plans for `` a new framework for law enforcement and judicial co-operation '' .
In a blow to students , the Erasmus programme - which allowed young people to study across Europe - is not part of the deal .
However , Mr Johnson said a new worldwide scheme will be introduced , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
People and businesses are still being urged to prepare for the end of the transition period , but the prime minister has said there are `` all sorts of things '' in the agreement to ensure `` things flow as smoothly as we possibly can '' at the borders .

Now the fate of trade between the UK and EU from 2021 has been secured, many will be keen to see the details of the deal struck on Christmas Eve.
There is still much that is not yet clear, but here's what we know so far about the agreement detailing what lies ahead on 1 January 2021 when the transition period ends and the new treaty comes into effect.
Fishing
Image: Fishing was one of the last-remaining hurdles in talks
Having been one of the major sticking points in negotiations, both sides ended up giving some ground on fishing.
During a five-and-a-half year transition period, the amount that EU fishermen and women can catch in British waters will fall by 25% - from current levels of around half to one third.
Brussels originally demanded the transition last 14 years, while the UK had pushed for an even lower EU quota .
Boris Johnson said it meant Britain would see its share of fish rise "substantially".
But Ireland's prime minister, Micheal Martin, admitted fishing communities would be left "disappointed" at the outcome.
And Barrie Deas, head of the UK National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations, said Mr Johnson "was willing to sacrifice fishing" and made "significant concessions" - leaving the industry "extremely disappointed".
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"We have secured increases in quota from the EU but they don't come anywhere close to what our entitlement is in international law," he added.
Trade
Image: The free trade agreement means no tariffs will be imposed
The biggest effect is that British businesses can export goods to the EU without having to pay extra charges (tariffs) or facing limits on the quantity they can sell (quotas) - worth around £668bn a year.
But there will be no more automatic recognition of qualifications for doctors, nurses, dentists, engineers and vets. Instead, they will have to seek recognition in whichever member state they go to practise in.
The deal also does not include financial services - which makes up 80% of British exports - but agreement is expected to be reached independently at a later stage using a principle called "equivalence", in which countries have regimes that have equivalent outcomes.
The government has already announced a Temporary Permissions Regime, which allows firms to continue operating once the current passporting regime falls away for up to three years.
Level playing field
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:58 What will be the impact of Brexit trade deal?
The EU feared that Britain could have an unfair advantage over member states in terms of state subsidies and standards.
Agreement was reached that the UK will not have to follow EU rules but should respect certain principles on areas such as the environment and workers' rights.
These will be reviewed in four years.
Laws
Image: The PM said the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice would end
After 1 January, UK laws "will be made solely by the British parliament interpreted by British judges sitting in UK courts and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice will come to an end", according to Mr Johnson.
Transport and travel
Image: People might need visas depending on how long they want to travel to the EU for
Brussels said the agreement would ensure passenger rights and transport safety are not undermined.
But the deal still means British tourists could feel a number of impacts, including possible mobile roaming charges in the EU - if operators choose to impose them.
When the transition period ends, UK travellers will still be able to visit most EU countries without a visa and can stay for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period - with the exception of Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Romania, which do not count towards the allowance.
Britons' passports must have at least six months left on them when they travel, and be less than 10 years old.
From 2022, UK nationals will have to pay for a visa-waiver scheme to visit many EU countries.
There will also be a new system for bringing pets on holiday, with people having to obtain an animal health certificate no more than 10 days before travelling.
Security
Image: Mr Johnson says the deal will still allow police to co-operate with EU states
The UK will have to automatically forfeit its membership of Europol, Eurojust, the European Arrest Warrant and data-sharing agreements such as the Schengen Information System.
But Mr Johnson said the new deal "protects our police co-operation, protects our ability to catch criminals and share intelligence across the European continent in the way we have done for many years".
It is still feared that losing access to these agreements will make the UK less secure.
But the European Commission has confirmed there are plans for "a new framework for law enforcement and judicial co-operation".
A Brussels briefing note said the UK would no longer have "direct, real-time access" to sensitive databases covering freedom, security and justice - but that it hoped for "timely, effective, efficient and reciprocal exchanges" of air passenger details and criminal record information, as well as DNA, fingerprint and vehicle registration data.
Students
Image: The Erasmus programme is coming to an end
In a blow to students, the Erasmus programme - which allowed young people to study across Europe - is not part of the deal.
However, Mr Johnson said a new worldwide scheme would be introduced, named after Bletchley Park code-breaker Alan Turing.
Preparations
People and businesses are still being urged to prepare for the end of the transition period, but the prime minister has said there are "all sorts of things" in the agreement to ensure "things flow as smoothly as we possibly can" at the borders.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-23--Brexit deal offers relief for businesses but little cause for celebration

A Brexit deal ensures that champagne , among other things , will still be available tariff-free come 1 January , but do n't expect many in business to be popping corks .
There will be a measure of relief that the agreement has been reached .
A deal at least averts the very worst outcome for British businesses and the workers they employ .
`` No-deal is better than a bad deal '' was the mantra of successive Conservative governments but in the real world , beyond parliamentary tea rooms and Brussels ' negotiating chambers , it was the emptiest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tariffs slapped overnight on everything from cars to carrots , raising the price of a family saloon by £1,900 and adding nearly a fifth to the price of the weekly shop .
It would have damaged the viability of major companies and industries , passed on significant price rises to consumers irrespective of which way they voted and , according to the Office for Budget Responsibility ( OBR ) , sliced a further 2 % off UK GDP next year .
But major employers and trade bodies across every sector of the economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a question of damage limitation rather than an opportunity .
A deal is better than none , but economically the UK will still be worse off in the short to medium term .
Wilfully erecting barriers between your economy and your largest trading partner - 43 % of UK exports go to the EU and 52 % of imports flow the other way - comes at an inevitable price .
The OBR estimates that even a free-trade agreement will see a 4 % contraction in the economy over the medium term .
What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Every sector has specific requirements and will want to know which have been addressed .
They already know for certain that red tape , cost and delay will increase at the UK border .
From 1 January , UK exporters will have to complete customs declarations for European trade for the first time in decades .
In total , it 's estimated there will be around 220 million extra declarations a year , new paperwork which , if each one was on a side of A4 , would stretch more than 5,000 miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new paperwork is expected to lead to significant delays , particularly at Dover and the Channel tunnel .
The government has already spent more than £700m on mitigation measures , including the Operation Brock contraflow and Manston airfield , which have had a spectacular rehearsal in the last few days following the border closure .
Another nine lorry parks , known as `` customs clearance centres '' , have been built in Kent and across the country to handle imports away from congested ports that lack the infrastructure to manage the new regime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all this is yet to be realised , but most significant exporters have been planning for delays , rising costs and aggravation .
Now a deal has been done they 'll be scouring the text for what else it contains .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The car industry will be searching for the `` rules of origin '' , regulations governing the quantity of locally produced parts that must be used if British-made electric vehicles are to avoid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wonder what provision has been made for Northern Ireland , the Schrodinger 's cat of international trade , both inside the customs union and outside of the EU .
It 's a dual status that impacts regulation of everything from the produce it imports and exports to the pallets those goods are carried on .
And the pharmaceutical industry , currently occupied with producing vaccines to push back the pandemic , will want to know that regulations that have governed medicine for 30 years will still be recognised in a week 's time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues that businesses large and small will need to assimilate and act on in the few short days before the end of the year .
An outcome the business establishment never wanted has finally come to pass and companies large and small have little choice but to get on with it .
Britain 's prospects of minimising the economic damage of Brexit depends on them doing just that .

A Brexit deal ensures that champagne, among other things, will still be available tariff-free come 1 January, but don't expect many in business to be popping corks.
There will be a measure of relief that the agreement has been reached. A deal at least averts the very worst outcome for British businesses and the workers they employ.
"No-deal is better than a bad deal" was the mantra of successive Conservative governments but in the real world, beyond parliamentary tea rooms and Brussels' negotiating chambers, it was the emptiest of rhetoric.
No-deal would have seen tariffs slapped overnight on everything from cars to carrots, raising the price of a family saloon by £1,900 and adding nearly a fifth to the price of the weekly shop.
Image: Boris Johnson met with the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen earlier this month
It would have damaged the viability of major companies and industries, passed on significant price rises to consumers irrespective of which way they voted and, according to the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), sliced a further 2% off UK GDP next year.
But major employers and trade bodies across every sector of the economy have long viewed any Brexit outcome as a question of damage limitation rather than an opportunity.
A deal is better than none, but economically the UK will still be worse off in the short to medium term.
Wilfully erecting barriers between your economy and your largest trading partner - 43% of UK exports go to the EU and 52% of imports flow the other way - comes at an inevitable price.
The OBR estimates that even a free-trade agreement will see a 4% contraction in the economy over the medium term.
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What every industry now awaits is detail.
Every sector has specific requirements and will want to know which have been addressed.
They already know for certain that red tape, cost and delay will increase at the UK border.
From 1 January, UK exporters will have to complete customs declarations for European trade for the first time in decades.
In total, it's estimated there will be around 220 million extra declarations a year, new paperwork which, if each one was on a side of A4, would stretch more than 5,000 miles laid end-to-end.
Image: Britain's chief negotiator David Frost, left, reached a deal with his EU counterpart Michel Barnier, right
The complexity of the new paperwork is expected to lead to significant delays, particularly at Dover and the Channel tunnel.
The government has already spent more than £700m on mitigation measures, including the Operation Brock contraflow and Manston airfield, which have had a spectacular rehearsal in the last few days following the border closure.
Another nine lorry parks, known as "customs clearance centres", have been built in Kent and across the country to handle imports away from congested ports that lack the infrastructure to manage the new regime.
The exact cost to business of all this is yet to be realised, but most significant exporters have been planning for delays, rising costs and aggravation.
Now a deal has been done they'll be scouring the text for what else it contains.
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The car industry will be searching for the "rules of origin", regulations governing the quantity of locally produced parts that must be used if British-made electric vehicles are to avoid tariffs.
Food and drink producers will wonder what provision has been made for Northern Ireland, the Schrodinger's cat of international trade, both inside the customs union and outside of the EU.
It's a dual status that impacts regulation of everything from the produce it imports and exports to the pallets those goods are carried on.
And the pharmaceutical industry, currently occupied with producing vaccines to push back the pandemic, will want to know that regulations that have governed medicine for 30 years will still be recognised in a week's time.
There are literally thousands of other issues that businesses large and small will need to assimilate and act on in the few short days before the end of the year.
An outcome the business establishment never wanted has finally come to pass and companies large and small have little choice but to get on with it.
Britain's prospects of minimising the economic damage of Brexit depends on them doing just that.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-24--How good is the Brexit deal? Only time will tell...

In recent weeks Boris Johnson has taken the country on a rollercoaster ride over Brexit .
At first there was hope , then there was irritation , steadfastness and stubbornness .
It culminated in what the prime minister wants to present as a Christmas Eve negotiating coup .
He has come out with a blizzard of claims of triumph against adversity , promises delivered and enormously complex arguments about negotiating wins against the EU .
But today is n't about Boris Johnson .
Nor is it about the soap opera of the tortuous 11-month negotiation with Michel Barnier and his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voters who , rightly , are likely to be paying very little attention today .
Ultimately the UK-EU trade deal will be judged by the public on a broad set of criteria .
Does this deal satisfy everyone who voted to leave the European Union in the referendum on 23 June 2016 ?
Does the British public think it gives the nation the freedom to do things it could not do as members of the EU ?
Does it cause businesses and individuals difficulties in their dealings with the EU , or have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will it be to live , work and deal with people across the Channel and the Irish Sea ?
These questions are simply not possible to answer today .
Britain has begun a journey away from the EU and this is only the first step .
The detail of the deal has not been seen , only the slogans have .
Only once businesses are forced to follow its strictures and courts interpret its meaning , when it comes into force on 1 January , will the deal start to have an impact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know how good a deal it is .

In recent weeks Boris Johnson has taken the country on a rollercoaster ride over Brexit.
At first there was hope, then there was irritation, steadfastness and stubbornness.
It culminated in what the prime minister wants to present as a Christmas Eve negotiating coup.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 9:48 'We have taken back control of our destiny'
He has come out with a blizzard of claims of triumph against adversity, promises delivered and enormously complex arguments about negotiating wins against the EU.
But today isn't about Boris Johnson. Nor is it about the soap opera of the tortuous 11-month negotiation with Michel Barnier and his team.
It's all about the voters who, rightly, are likely to be paying very little attention today.
Ultimately the UK-EU trade deal will be judged by the public on a broad set of criteria.
Does this deal satisfy everyone who voted to leave the European Union in the referendum on 23 June 2016?
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Does the British public think it gives the nation the freedom to do things it could not do as members of the EU?
Does it cause businesses and individuals difficulties in their dealings with the EU, or have sensible compromises been found?
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:36 'Today there is relief, tinged with sadness'
How easy will it be to live, work and deal with people across the Channel and the Irish Sea?
These questions are simply not possible to answer today. Britain has begun a journey away from the EU and this is only the first step.
The detail of the deal has not been seen, only the slogans have.
Only once businesses are forced to follow its strictures and courts interpret its meaning, when it comes into force on 1 January, will the deal start to have an impact.
And only then can we truly know how good a deal it is.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-25--Brexit: EU ambassadors gather for trade deal implementation talks

Plans are under way for the new post-Brexit trade deal to be implemented , as EU ambassadors praised the bloc 's `` resilience '' during negotiations .
Brussels ' chief negotiator Michel Barnier updated representatives of all the 27 countries on Christmas Day after yesterday 's last-minute breakthrough .
He arrived at the event in Brussels in a mask , carrying a hefty blue folder and greeted diplomats with elbow bumps - including one who kept up the festive spirit by wearing a red and white Christmas hat with stars on .
Sebastian Fischer , a spokesman for the group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would decide on whether to proceed with the first step of ratification known as `` provisional application '' in the `` coming '' days .
That will mean the deal can come into force in time from 1 January 2021 without the need for a vote by the European Parliament , which has already broken up for Christmas .
Mr Fischer said ambassadors had `` praised '' Mr Barnier and his negotiating team `` for their resilience and steadfastness under intense pressure '' during the post-Brexit talks .
And he joked that `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas among socially distanced colleagues '' , adding : `` Thank you , Brexit !
Typical 2020 . ''
Mr Barnier , who called Thursday `` a day of relief tinged with sadness '' , appeared sombre in most pictures of the event - but did let slip a few smiles .
In the UK , parliament is being recalled on 30 December - but MPs have been urged not to travel from their constituencies to London , which is in the highest band of coronavirus restrictions .
Boris Johnson has said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country - serving as `` the feast '' after the `` oven ready deal '' he promised at last year 's general election .
In a Christmas message filmed by Downing Street , the prime minister promised it would be the basis of a `` happy and successful '' relationship with the EU .
Details of the agreement , which runs to 1,246 pages , are still being unpicked .
The biggest effect of the deal will be that businesses will face no extra charges ( tariffs ) or limits on what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ avoiding an annual loss of around £668bn to the economy .
An 11th-hour breakthrough came on Christmas Eve , following ten months of trade talks and over four years since the UK voted to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum .

Plans are under way for the new post-Brexit trade deal to be implemented, as EU ambassadors praised the bloc's "resilience" during negotiations.
Brussels' chief negotiator Michel Barnier updated representatives of all the 27 countries on Christmas Day after yesterday's last-minute breakthrough.
He arrived at the event in Brussels in a mask, carrying a hefty blue folder and greeted diplomats with elbow bumps - including one who kept up the festive spirit by wearing a red and white Christmas hat with stars on.
Image: Michel Barnier arrived with a large blue folder
Sebastian Fischer, a spokesman for the group known as COREPER, said member states would decide on whether to proceed with the first step of ratification known as "provisional application" in the "coming" days.
That will mean the deal can come into force in time from 1 January 2021 without the need for a vote by the European Parliament, which has already broken up for Christmas.
Mr Fischer said ambassadors had "praised" Mr Barnier and his negotiating team "for their resilience and steadfastness under intense pressure" during the post-Brexit talks.
And he joked that "nothing is more fun than to celebrate Christmas among socially distanced colleagues", adding: "Thank you, Brexit! Typical 2020."
Mr Barnier, who called Thursday "a day of relief tinged with sadness", appeared sombre in most pictures of the event - but did let slip a few smiles.
In the UK, parliament is being recalled on 30 December - but MPs have been urged not to travel from their constituencies to London, which is in the highest band of coronavirus restrictions.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 9:53 In full: Boris Johnson outlines deal with EU
Boris Johnson has said the trade deal is his Christmas present to the country - serving as "the feast" after the "oven ready deal" he promised at last year's general election.
In a Christmas message filmed by Downing Street, the prime minister promised it would be the basis of a "happy and successful" relationship with the EU.
Details of the agreement, which runs to 1,246 pages, are still being unpicked.
The biggest effect of the deal will be that businesses will face no extra charges (tariffs) or limits on what they can export (quotas), avoiding an annual loss of around £668bn to the economy.
An 11th-hour breakthrough came on Christmas Eve, following ten months of trade talks and over four years since the UK voted to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum.