The German reaction to Theresa May’s speech: A mixed response to ‘hard Brexit’

Theresa May’s speech on 17 January 2017 laid out some of the key aims of the UK government as it seeks to leave the European Union. Inez von Weitershausen presents an overview of the reactions from Germany, writing that responses ranged from anger and disappointment to more hopeful calls for a constructive relationship with the UK following Brexit.

• Primary Source

Spiegel Online International, 18.01.17: [Commentary]: Theresa May's Brexit Plan. I Want, I Want, I Want http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/theresa-may-promises-a-glorious-brexit-future-a-1130529.html

ESO: Background information: Speech by Theresa May, Lancaster House, London, 17 January 2017 http://www.europeansources.info/record/speech-by-theresa-may-lancaster-house-london-17-january-2017/

ESO: In Focus: Brexit - The United Kingdom and the European Union http://www.europeansources.info/record/brexit-the-united-kingdom-and-the-european-union/

ESO: Background information: Britain could have 'special relationship' with EU after Brexit, says German foreign minister http://www.europeansources.info/record/britain-could-have-special-relationship-with-eu-after-brexit-says-german-foreign-minister/

ECFR: Article, 25.01.17: Europe’s priority now is to keep the union of 27 together http://www.ecfr.eu/article/note_from_berlin_brexit_europes_priority_now_is_to_keep_eu_27_together

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