Merkel's Doubts About Ease of Brexit

Merkel told the Bundestag this morning that Britain has illusions about the ease of Brexit.

As per Business Insider UK:

"I have to put it in such clear terms because, unfortunately, I have the feeling that some in Britain still have illusions, but that would be a waste of time.

We can only have an agreement on the future relationship with Britain when all questions about its exit have been cleared up satisfactorily. A third state, and that's what Britain will be, cannot and will not have at its disposal the same rights ... as members of the European Union."

To her credit, she also noted that it would not be easy for the EU either:

"The exit negotiations will definitely demand a great deal of the European Union as well as Britain itself in the two years. I think that is completely beyond doubt."

It will be a long two years. However, if people keep their heads the outcome can be satisfactory for both Britain and the EU.