Three years after Britain’s departure from the European Union, uncertainty over unresolved issues has remained. This week, a breakthrough was made. The two sides struck a deal on one of the most problematic areas. The agreement provides new rules for trade in Northern Ireland, which stayed within the EU’s single market for physical goods despite being part of the UK. That arrangement was opposed by pro-UK unionists who refused to join the region’s power-sharing government in protest last year. The new deal could pave the way for the suspended government to resume.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the agreement marked a new chapter. It is to be hoped the UK and EU can now move on from protracted Brexit disputes and play a bigger part in helping tackle global problems, from the economy to climate change. Sunak marked the Brexit anniversary in January by championing the “huge opportunity” it presents. But the journey has been fraught with difficulty. Brexit coincided with the onset of the pandemic. It kicked in on January 31, 2020, the same day British health authorities announced the first Covid-19 cases. Three years on, Britain faces a cost of living crisis, high levels of government debt, and the threat of recession.

UK PM, EU chief clinch Brexit deal over Northern Ireland trade

Studies have shown the departure from the EU had a negative impact on the economy. The country is lagging the rest of the Group of Seven, failing to restore pre-pandemic levels of growth. Last year, Britain slipped below India to become the sixth largest economy. Trade deals with major economies, such as the United States and China have not yet materialised. A recent opinion poll showed 45 per cent of respondents felt Brexit was “worse than expected” and there is talk of Britain now needing to become closer to the EU.