Dear John,

Did you see our report?

I hope you had a chance to read the briefing we released last week – its work we’re proud of.

We set out the case and the mechanism for extending the Brexit transition period.

We researched the cost of extension and got down into the detail of the Withdrawal Agreement. And if our supporters like one thing, it’s detail!

There have been suggestions the UK would have to contribute to the EU as if it were a member state for as long as the transition period was extended.

We found this is not the case.

You can read our full report now.

Article 132 (2) of the Withdrawal Agreement states that for the extended transition period the EU law relating to Member State financial contributions will not apply to the UK after 31 December 2020.

In the event of an extension, the EU and UK Joint Committee would agree the amount of the UK financial contribution during the extended period, taking into account the UK’s status during the period. 

This adds up to what we already knew – there are few downsides in adjusting our exit schedule to meet unprecedented global events. But we face a devastating economic shock if we do nothing and plough on with an outdated timetable.

If anyone you know is in doubt about the need for an extension, or worried about financial contributions to the EU, show them this report.

You can share our findings on social media, using the buttons below.

We’ve worked hard to dispel the myths and fears around extending the Brexit transition period – and we’re winning. Our polling spells out one clear message: there is both an appetite and a need to extend transition.

It’s understandable many people don’t want to think about Brexit at a time like this. Neither do our politicians, our civil service or our public services.

That is exactly why the only sensible option is to extend the transition period until after we’ve dealt with the coronavirus pandemic.

Best wishes,

Flo Hutchings
Head of External Affairs

P.S. Please take the time to read our briefing here. It contains information which will dispel most misgivings about extending the Brexit transition period. As always, I hope you and your family are well, and thank you for your continued support.