The Government’s defeat in Parliament on its Brexit deal last night (Tuesday 15 January 2019) increases the likelihood of either the UK leaving the EU on 29 March without a deal (No Deal), or of the UK leaving the EU at a later date.

The University is therefore stepping up its No Deal preparation, as well as its support for EU staff and post-Brexit planning. The University’s Global & Political Affairs Unit has prepared a briefing note for staff on the latest situation following last night’s Parliamentary vote.

A General Election at this stage is highly unlikely, as is significant change in the UK Government’s negotiating position and/or the EU’s response to it. Support for a People’s Vote referendum is growing but there is no evidence of a Parliamentary majority for this course of action.