The year in Brexit: an insider's guide

Synopsis

In December, just before Christmas, the UK and EU release a joint report that introduces the contentious Irish border backstop, marking a pivotal moment in Brexit discussions. Theresa May's Mansion House speech advocates for a softer Brexit, which frustrates her Euroskeptic colleagues. Following this, Mrs. May convenes her cabinet at Chequers to propose an even softer economic partnership, two years post-referendum. However, her plans face backlash, leading to the resignations of Boris Johnson and David Davis. As autumn progresses, May attempts to negotiate with EU leaders in Salzburg but is met with resistance. Meanwhile, Labour's conference raises the prospect of a second referendum, a topic Jeremy Corbyn later tries to downplay. The year culminates with over 700,000 people marching in London, demanding another vote on Brexit, highlighting the growing public discontent.