Overview
- A draft negotiating text applies the clause to a veterinary agreement designed to cut post-Brexit red tape for UK food and drink exporters.
- The draft would require Britain to dynamically align with new EU rules on animal and plant products as they are introduced.
- If the UK later left the agreement, it would be expected to cover costs for restoring border control infrastructure, equipment, and initial recruitment and training.
- Nigel Farage and Reform UK reject the provision as undemocratic and pledge non-compliance, Conservatives vow to reverse the deal, and a Reform adviser says a legal challenge is likely.
- UK officials say termination clauses are standard and reciprocal, while the European relations minister targets enabling legislation by year-end with operations starting in early to mid-2027.