Dear Reader,
The UK’s post-Brexit free trade deal with the EU was finally ratified by the European Parliament this week. It may seem like a mere ceremonial moment, but it could have rather more significance. With the deal confirmed, the British government is now free to stand up to Brussels, writes Allister Heath in his column. It’s time, he argues, for this country to set out a new foreign policy doctrine and fight ruthlessly for its own self-interest.
The next stage of Britain’s reopening is a little under three weeks away, yet the date really on people’s minds is June 21, when all restrictions are set to be lifted. Or are they? The Government’s emergency powers have been extended until September, meaning some rules could stay. Here we explain the five ways in which life may not be quite as free as you might have thought.
Boris Johnson has had something of a difficult week. Dominating headlines at present is how exactly the expensive refurbishment of Downing Street was paid for. It’s a complicated tale, but Gordon Rayner lays it out clearly, including what we know so far and what the consequences could be for the Prime Minister, in this in-depth piece.
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Today marks the 10th wedding anniversary of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. For the past decade, the couple have been a pillar of stability for the Royal family. How have they managed it? Camilla Tominey tells the inside story of their relationship and how a “seesaw” approach has helped them balance the personal and the public.
Chris
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