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IFG - Constitutional crisis looms if UK nations cannot agree on Brexit

As the heads of the devolved nations, including Nicola Sturgeon, meet Theresa May in Downing Street to discuss their Brexit priorities, the Institute for Government warns that failure to reach consensus could risk a full-blown constitutional crisis.

A new report, Four-nation Brexit, argues it is imperative that Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and England reach agreement on the UK’s Brexit terms and negotiating strategy.

Imposing a Brexit settlement in the face of devolved opposition (while legally possible) would be a reckless strategy for a PM with a deep commitment to the Union. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland cannot be treated like any other lobby or interest group. Equally, the devolved governments will have to accept that Westminster will have the final say.

Starting at today’s summit, the four governments must set out a clear plan for how they will work together on Brexit. Working in partnership will naturally require all sides to compromise. If agreement proves elusive then each of the governments should be held to account.

Recent developments are not reassuring. The PM has already said the negotiations are for her government alone. And the Scottish First Minister has set her government on a collision course with Westminster by publishing a bill to hold a second independence referendum.

The IfG recommends that May start by setting up a new committee for lead Brexit ministers in each government, making clear when it will meet and the range of issues upon which it will seek agreement at each stage. This would send a clear message that the four governments are willing to work together.

Akash Paun, IFG Fellow and report author, said:

“As with a dog walking on its hind legs, we should be impressed if the four governments manage to work together at all. But when it comes to Brexit, the stakes are high. If the dog topples over after a few tentative steps, and consensus cannot be reached, the result could be a constitutional crisis.

“Today’s meeting offers us the chance to assess the willingness and ability of these politicians to find agreement on the way forward. We hope concrete suggestions emerge for how they will work together. A high-profile, public-facing committee should be the first step.”

For more information, please contact nicole@instituteforgovernment.org.uk / 07850313791

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