ROME - The British Ambassador to Italy, Jill Morris, addressed the Chamber of Deputies on Wednesday in a speech on Brexit and the United Kingdom’s relationship with Italy.

  She spoke about the Brexit deal reached between the United Kingdom and the European Union, calling it a “piece of good news, that will bring some certainty to our relationship.” She continued, “the United Kingdom will be a friend and an ally for the EU”, and mentioned the “precious contribution” of the four million European citizens that continue to work in Britain.

  “A fair and balanced deal has been reached, that respects the economic independence of the United Kingdom and the EU, guaranteeing a peaceful coexistence between the communities of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.”

  She added, “my country has never had any intention of closing itself off from exchanges of any type with Europe, and the intense effort put into the negotiations that have brought this deal show that.”

  She discussed the effects of the Brexit deal on British and European citizens, particularly students effected by the end of Britain’s participation in the Erasmus scheme, but went on to say that the UK wants to be a positive force in the world for the protection of human rights, democracy and the environment. The end of the free movement of citizens is one of the aspects immediately visible at the end of the period of transition. In the context of the negotiations, protection of Europeans citizens already present in Britain and vice versa would be guaranteed, but new rules will be applied to future mobility, in particular for those looking for jobs, that must obtain a visa.” In terms of the situation for students, she said “facilities will be provided for researchers, those with research doctorates and for students, who will have special visas.”

  Morris also pledged that the relationship with Italy will not change as Italy is Britain’s tenth biggest trading partner, and trade has been steadily increasing over the last few years.

  She closed by mentioning the UK and EU’s promises in regards to the environment, saying, “such combined commitment shows the determination of the United Kingdom in stabilising a fruitful collaboration with other countries on the climate, becoming standard bearers of environmental standards.” 

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