The official confirmation of the position that the Government had already reiterated on several occasions was given during a “constructive” meeting by videoconference with the Vice President of the European Commission, Maroš Šefčovič.
“I have formally confirmed that the UK will not extend the transition period and the extension period has passed. On January 1, 2021 we will regain control and regain our political and economic independence,” announced Gove through the social network Twitter.
The UK left the EU on 31 January, but maintains access to the single market and other European economic structures, during a transition period that lasts until the end of 2020.
An extension of up to two years is possible, but in the UK’s Withdrawal Agreement from the EU it is determined that the request would have to be made by the end of June.
The two sides are trying to negotiate a trade agreement to enter into force in 2021, but the negotiations have been at an impasse due to divergence on issues such as fisheries or competition rules.
A videoconference meeting between British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European leaders including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will take place on Monday to take stock and discuss potential compromise solutions.
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