68 Acknowledged

While the best moment for an EU White Paper would have been in advance of...

Conclusion
While the best moment for an EU White Paper would have been in advance of the first UK-EU summit, we do not believe it is too late given that the Government’s own position on this matter is clearly in flux; there remains a need for a stable, long-term approach to the UK’s relationship with the EU; and the significant challenges in that relationship that remain which the Lancaster House summit did not address. A White Paper could serve in particular to elucidate the Government’s apparent shift in recent months towards considering a closer economic, and therefore political, relationship with the EU. (Conclusion, Paragraph 197) 99
Government Response Summary
The government refers to its manifesto commitments on resetting relations with the EU and the Common Understanding announced at the May Summit, setting out an agenda for strengthened cooperation, but does not commit to publishing a White Paper.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government Acknowledged
The Government’s manifesto, which we were elected on, was clear on our approach to resetting relations with the EU - including negotiating a food and drink agreement to prevent unnecessary border checks and help to reduce the pressure on prices. The Common Understanding, announced at last May’s Summit, sets out an agenda for strengthened cooperation with the EU across safety, security and economic prosperity. These commitments, and the detailed negotiations with the EU that are now taking place, deliver on what the British public voted for and are good for bills, jobs and our borders. The UK and the EU have committed to hold annual summits. The date of the next UK-EU summit will be confirmed in due course, but it is expected to take place in the first half of this year.