Theresa May to trigger article 50 on 29 March

UK’s permanent representative to the European Union has told the bloc to expect a letter on that date
Theresa May will trigger article 50 on Wednesday 29 March, the prime minister’s spokesman has confirmed.

 A pro-Brexit banner outside parliament.

The UK’s permanent representative to the European Union, Sir Tim Barrow, notified the EU on Monday morning that a letter should be expected on that date.

May, who was visiting Swansea on Monday, intended to visit Northern Ireland and Scotland before the formal notification was sent by letter on 29 March, Downing Street said.

Downing Street sources had repeatedly said that Theresa May would take the action to start the Brexit process “by the end of March”.

Earlier rumours that the step would be taken last week were quashed by sources close to the Prime Minister after Nicola Sturgeon declared her desire for a second independence referendum, leading to speculation that May did not wish to appear cavalier about the future of the union.

“Last June, the people of the UK made the historic decision to leave the EU. Next Wednesday, the Government will deliver on that decision and formally start the process by triggering Article 50.

“We are on the threshold of the most important negotiation for this country for a generation.

“The Government is clear in its aims: a deal that works for every nation and region of the UK and indeed for all of Europe – a new, positive partnership between the UK and our friends and allies in the European Union.”


guardian