There was a business expert, a legal expert, and an expert representing international research, and therefore us all (so she said). They sought to give a balanced view from their perspectives.
It filled out a lot of detail, and otherwise generally confirmed what I suspected.
In business, nothing has yet changed and the expectation is that Britain will adapt well to whatever change results there are. Britain imports more than she exports to Europe. She needs to improve her infer structure and efficiency, but that is true anyway. Bankers will change as little as possible!
The legal perspective is that while experts are saying "no problem", there will in fact be lots of renegotiation. As usual with lawyers, so he said, there is a simple statement followed by pages of caveats. Most trade in Europe currently appends English terms and conditions.
The scientific community is likely to lose access to Horizon 2020 funding, and is already experiencing some reluctance with investors concerning British participation. EU students are likely to experience large cost increases to study in Britain and that is a concern for attracting the brightest minds. Scientists are fighting for transparent access and international cooperation and the British government is aware of the problem.
In summary, the current uncertainty is the difficulty and the sooner things are resolved the better.
During Q&A an Italian man suggested Britain was the problem. Nobody took up his point, but I am sure from an EU point of view he is right. From a British viewpoint the reverse would certainly be said.
The council building is in a great spot near the Hôtel des Invalides and the balcony afforded these great nighttime views of Paris. On the left the Hôtel des Invalides, centre picture- guess what! And to the right a distant view of Le Grand Palais.
Snacks and drinks are already consumed, so enjoy the photos (click to enlarge them).
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