Britain’s decision to leave the EU in the referendum vote of June 2016 was not expected to be welcomed by the EU leadership. At its first meeting after the vote, the tone was struck for a response which combines determination to emphasise the common commitment of the remaining 27 to a united front with a certain degree of sabre rattling. Accompanying this common commitment to continuing a united front has been the less harmonious suggestion that the remaining 27 might obstruct Britain’s future trade agreement with the EU. Lawlor warns that this approach would not only harm the UK, but it would also hurt the EU's trade market. Continued free trade cooperation, she argues, is best for the UK and the EU.
