BBC: Chancellor Merkel Warns UK on Scope of Brexit Talks With EU

The European Union is setting priorities and preparing for an orderly Brexit with the expectation of settling exit terms before planning on future ties. Terms for settlement include British payments due for the EU budget and rights of EU citizens in the UK and British citizens in the EU. The British dispute an estimate from EU officials that the United Kingdom owes €60 billion. EU leaders will meet to plan their joint negotiating position on April 29, and they expect assurances from Britain on a smooth, transparent and responsible transition before decisions are made on trade and the future relationship. “It can only be done in that sequence," noted German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The United Kingdom triggered a deadline on exit negotiations in March, and both sides must sort out more than four decades of legislation including the UK as an EU member state. The rules allow for an extension, but that is likely only if negotiations are going well. – YaleGlobal