On 31st January 2020, the United Kingdom ceased to be a member of the European Union. However, the withdrawal agreement between the UK and EU necessitated the adoption of certain laws and regulations to ensure a smooth transition period. One of these is the “European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020 (Commencement No. 1) Regulations 2020” which came into force on 20th December 2020.
The purpose of this regulation is to put into effect the provisions of the Withdrawal Agreement in the UK`s domestic law. It is a crucial piece of legislation that ensures that the UK can move forward with certainty and clarity after leaving the EU. The regulation covers various aspects of the Withdrawal Agreement, including citizens` rights, the Northern Ireland Protocol, and the financial settlement.
Citizens` Rights:
The regulation guarantees the rights of EU citizens residing in the UK and UK citizens living in the EU. This includes the right to work, study, and access healthcare. It also ensures that family members of EU citizens who arrive in the UK before the end of the transition period can join them in the UK after the transition period.
Northern Ireland Protocol:
The Northern Ireland Protocol is a unique arrangement in the Withdrawal Agreement, designed to prevent the return of a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The regulation puts into effect the Protocol by establishing new customs and regulatory checks on goods that enter Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK or from outside the EU.
Financial Settlement:
The regulation covers the UK`s financial obligations under the Withdrawal Agreement. This includes the UK`s share of the EU`s budget for 2020, outstanding commitments, and liabilities. The UK has agreed to pay a financial settlement of £33 billion to the EU, which will be spread out over several years.
In conclusion, the “European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020 (Commencement No. 1) Regulations 2020” is an essential piece of legislation that ensures a smooth transition for both the UK and the EU after Brexit. It puts into effect the provisions of the Withdrawal Agreement in the UK`s domestic law and guarantees citizens` rights, implements the Northern Ireland Protocol, and covers the UK`s financial settlement. With this regulation in place, the UK can move forward with confidence and certainty as a sovereign nation outside of the EU.