MEPs Endorse EP Red Lines on Brexit

The European Parliament on Wednesday adopted its position on Brexit, by 516 votes in favour, 133 against, and 50 abstentions, setting out its red lines for the upcoming discussions.
The resolution backs "phased negotiations" in the divorce proceedings, going against the wishes of Theresa May’s government, which would like exit talks and discussions of a future trade arrangement to happen in parallel.
The parliament leaves open the possibility that UK citizens might be able to individually apply to keep the rights they currently enjoy. However, the resolution also says that any transition arrangements to cushion the UK’s departure, such as tariff-free access to the single market, can only last a maximum of three years after the UK departs.
The parliament’s motion also backs making the European court of justice responsible for settling any legal challenges during the transition period, and is opposed to a special deal for the City of London. May’s letter notifying the president of the European council last week of the UK’s intention to leave explicitly called for parallel talks, a position the prime minister has maintained in recent comments. 
However, the EU’s chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, said the European parliament – as the first EU institution to respond to May’s letter and the institution that will ultimately be asked for its consent on a deal – had set the tone for the talks.

Source: QNA