What is Article 50?

- The British today have put a new step in the United Kingdom and Gibraltar European Union membership referendum process. The government in London, the so-called Article 50 letter handed to Brussels. This separation of the EU officially put in motion. Tough cost, so our foreign editor answered whatever questions you might have about this.

What is Article 50?

Article 50 is for each Member State of the European Union to leave the union. It is part of the Lisbon Treaty, in force since 2009. Before the Lisbon Treaty, there was no formal procedure to leave the EU.

What does Article 50?

Article 50 comprises only five paragraphs. It sets put in brief the procedure for leaving the EU.

Firstly, the European Council to the Board of European leaders, the outgoing country be informed of his intention to leave the European Union. Then the negotiations have to leave the EU start.

Within two years, there must be an agreement unless all EU Member States unanimously decide to extend that period. The outgoing country should not participate in the internal deliberations within the EU on the imminent departure.

Any agreement on an exit from the EU must be approved by a 'qualified majority' of 72 percent of the 27 remaining Member States, which must represent a 65 percent of the total population. The European Parliament must give its approval to the agreement.

In the last section the exiting country gets after his departure to return the option in the EU. is made to Article 49 of the Lisbon Treaty refers to the procedure than to follow.

When is Article 50 procedure started?

The Government of the United Kingdom can decide when the procedure is run. Prime Minister Theresa May has decided to do so on March 29, 2017.

To be negotiated there?

That is not to say, but it is certain that the 'division of property' will play a major role in the negotiation process. The British believe that should be a part of the FTA negotiations. The EU has so far expressed a preference for the first time handling a retirement agreement, and then only to conclude a trade agreement.

The British also want to be clarified as soon as possible for the millions of British citizens in the EU and millions of European citizens in the UK.

Other issues which will probably be discussed:

- Not Launched EU funds destined for the United Kingdom

- Cooperation in the field of foreign policy, including sanctions

- transitional periods for the free trade agreements between the EU and third countries

- access of British citizens to European health and vice versa.

- Fishing Rights of British fishermen

Who is going to negotiate?

For the European Commission, Michel Barnier, the chief negotiator, the British team will be headed United Kingdom and Gibraltar European Union membership referendum Minister David Davis.

What will happen if there is not an agreement within two years and the term also is not renewed?

The UK will automatically leave the European Union and all the existing European treaties and has no more free access to the European market. British-European trade will take place under the rules of the World Trade Organization WTO.

Can Britain still change your mind?

There are divided opinions about. Most Conservatives, including Prime Minister Theresa May, thinking that the step is irreversible. According to opponents of the United Kingdom and Gibraltar European Union membership referendum, the British can certainly retrace their steps.

Can the Brits now close trade agreements with third countries?

As long as the United Kingdom is not yet a member of the European Union. However, there may occur informal discussions with third countries.