The European institutions responded with secrecy when Boris Johnson was announced as the head of government and leader for the British Conservative Party. There were no statements, messages, or statements on social media. Absolute silence. It is significant because it seems logical that the European Union sighs of relief at the departure of an old, uncomfortable partner, the architect of Brexit. He leaves behind many fringes. The application of the Northern Ireland Protocol is one example.
For fear of the ‘premier, the European Commission won’t toast with champagne in public. Johannes Bahrke, his spokesperson, stated that he had no comment on the matter when questioned by a journalist yesterday. He said straightly, “We have not comment on what occurred in the UK.” Daniel Ferrie (his counterpart for relations with the United Kingdom), was more specific and stated that Johnson’s resignation “doesn’t change anything” in the Brexit negotiations. He stated that “our position is to find solutions.” We do not accept political events as a reason to change our position on the protocol or our work with British authorities with Northern Ireland.
Relations between the Twenty-seven and the British Government are at their lowest point since London attempted to unilaterally alter the Northern Ireland Protocol. This was interpreted by Brussels as a violation of International Law. Johnson pledged to deliver Brexit during the campaign that brought him to Downing Street in 2019. He delivered, but not entirely. The main obstacle to a deal with the EU has been the Ireland Protocol. This blockage has kept negotiations with them stalled for months. His Cabinet presented a law to amend it in June, but this was just one of many disagreements.
Yesterday, the European Executive confirmed the existence of three infringement proceedings against the United Kingdom. It is now waiting for the British authorities in order to comply with the EU agreement within two months. It will refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union if it fails. The Commission is unsure who the next prime minister will be, so it maintains a calm and hopes that the new “premier” will be more open to compromise than his predecessor.
