Policy paper

The process for withdrawing from the European Union (Archived)

This document explains the process that would follow a vote to leave the EU, and the prospects for negotiations.

Documents

The process for withdrawing from the European Union - print version

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Details

This document sets out the process that would follow a vote to leave the European Union, and the prospects for negotiations. The rules for exit are set out in Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union. This is the only lawful route available to withdraw from the EU.

Alternative models for the UK’s relationship with the EU after exit are examined in a second document.

Published 29 February 2016
Last updated 4 March 2016 + show all updates
  1. added summary

  2. First published.