More criticism of the PM's speech



A day after her key-note speech on the UK's departure from the EU, politicians and commercial representatives have clearly demanded greater clarity from British Prime Minister Theresa May.

Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel called the speech held in Florence on Friday "disappointing." Slowly we are running out of time, "said Gabriel on Saturday in Wolfenbüttel.

Possible transitional periods can only be discussed when, in addition to the final statement, the rights of EU citizens in Great Britain and the design of the new EU external border between British Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland were clarified. France's President, Emmanuel Macron, had previously expressed similar views.

Gabriel said he was concerned that power plays within the British Conservatives prevented a solution. He hoped that Britain could remain in the European internal market. However, the recognition of the European Court of Justice and the free movement of workers is a precondition for this. In her speech, May had proposed a two-year transitional phase after the Brexit in Florence. She hinted that London would continue to contribute to the EU budget during this period, thus remaining within the Single Market. This is to create "valuable security" among other things for companies. EU foreigners are also to be allowed to settle in Great Britain during the Brexit transition period. In an interview with the Roman newspaper "La Repubblica" (Saturday) May expressed optimism about future trade relations.

The head of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), Martin Wansleben, called for more planning security for companies. "Ms May has only shed light on the rights of EU workers but she has also ignited new smoke candles and we still do not know how the British government will present its transitional phase of two years and what will follow, "said Wansleben of the German Press Agency.

According to Green Party chief, Cem Özdemir, the specific ideas of London are still unknown. Michael Stübgen, the European spokemsman of the CDU / CSU Bundestag parliamentary party, complained that May's speech would not bring any new momentum to the talks. ....

Britain annually pays about 10 billion euros net in the EU budget. In a two-year transition phase, London would still have to contribute about 20 billion euros despite Brexits.

This would, however, only cover part of the 60 to 100 billion euro that London has to pay according to EU estimates. This bill covers jointly entered EU financial commitments for the budget, funding pensions and pension liabilities. The final account is the biggest issue in the tough Brexit negotiations. The next round will begin on Monday.

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