With a convincing Conservative majority win in the recent UK general election, Boris Johnson is expected to present his revised Brexit deal to parliament before Christmas. A new protocol in the revised deal replaces the controversial backstop arrangements in Theresa May's deal.

After 31 January 2020, the EU and the UK government will enter into negotiations about the future trading relationship. The UK government is currently aiming to secure a trade deal by the end of 2020, but it is highly unlikely that this can be achieved in such a short time. Legal experts and political commentators point out that the UK's future relationship with the EU involves a range of issues in addition to trade, such as dispute resolution, law enforcement, security and citizens' rights. They believe an extension of the transition period is inevitable, unless a No Deal scenario makes a comeback.

In early January, our dedicated Brexit newsletter will tell you more about what to expect in each practice area affected.