Prof David Phinnemore (QUB) – After the EU Referendum: The United Kingdom as a Member State with a ‘Special Status’ or Non-Member in search of a New Relationship
The presentation reviews the nature and content of the outcome to the UK government’s attempt to renegotiate the terms of UK membership of the European Union (EU) as well as options for a new relationship in the case of a vote to leave the EU. The presentation reviews the agreement reached in February 2016 and assess its significance for a continued UK membership of the EU. Drawing on analysis of existing arrangements governing relations between non-member states and the EU, the presentation also considers the principles and precedents that are likely to determine the nature and substance of any new relationship the UK can conclude with the EU if there is a vote to leave the EU on 23 June 2016.