Following the Brexit referendum, the UK and the EU have been in talks on the country’s withdrawal from the union as well as the possible frame work for future relations, which would include trade.

The first phase of negotiations has focused on the withdrawal agreement, but in the coming weeks talks on the withdrawal terms will run in parallel with discussions on the possible future relationship between the EU and the UK. MEPs will discuss Parliament’s position regarding the possible future relationship on Tuesday and vote on a resolution the following day.

MEPs play a key role in deciding the outcome of these talks as any agreement would have to be approved by the European Parliament and the Council.

Guy Verhofstadt was appointed by the MEPs as Parliament’s coordinator. For his work he is able to draw on the expertise of the parliamentary committees and is assisted by the rest of Parliament’s Brexit steering group.



MEPs have adopted resolutions setting out the Parliament’s position to influence the outcome of the Brexit negotiations. They also liaise extensively with the EU’s chief negotiators as well as those who will be affected by Brexit.

Find out more about Parliament’s role by watching the video above.