Today, the European Parliament voted by a large majority on a Brexit resolution calling on the EU to protect citizen's rights and, if no agreement is reached, to extend Article 50 in order to avoid a no-deal Brexit and preserve peace in Ireland.

Philippe Lamberts MEP, President of the Greens/EFA group and member of the Brexit Steering Group in the European Parliament, comments:

"There are many reasons to frustrated by the disingenuity of Boris Johnson, but that should not get in the way of preserving peace on the island of Ireland and supporting the people most affected by Brexit. The Good Friday Agreement must be upheld, which is why the European Parliament will not support any withdrawal agreement that does not contain a backstop. Boris Johnson would do well to remember that there can be no free trade agreement with the EU, in the event of no deal, if the UK does not honour its obligations and commitments.

"So far there is nothing concrete on the table from the side of the UK government but bluff and bluster. However, no-deal must be avoided at all costs and the EU should be open to an extension of Article 50 if no agreement can be reached at the next European Council summit in October.

"If the UK changes its mind on Brexit, then the European-side should keep the door wide open. European citizens in the UK and Brits in the EU must receive legal reassurances that their rights will be protected."