Brexit remans an unavoidable subject whenever and wherever British residents of the grand duchy gather. Wednesday evening was no different as the British Chamber of Commerce for Luxembourg invited members to a new year’s reception at the residence of the British ambassador. “I work on the basis that people will be disappointed if I don’t say anything about Brexit,” ambassador John Marshall told the gathering after being introduced by BCC chair Joanna Denton.

Referring to the vote on 15 January on the withdrawal agreement drawn up between the British government and the EU, Marshall said that the government feels that “this agreement not only delivers on the outcome of the referendum but protects at the same time jobs and the UK economy.” It is also the best deal the UK could negotiate, and the EU has made clear it is the best deal available, Marshall added. But he said he saw no point in speculating about how parliament will vote on 15 January, but did acknowledge that prime minister Theresa May would make a declaration soon after the vote, whichever way it goes. “I am still confident there will be a negotiated exit,” the ambassador said.

He also referred to Xavier Bettel’s support for the British community in Luxembourg and that after the withdrawal details have been finalized, he expects the Luxembourg government to announce what processes British citizens need to undertake to ensure they continue to enjoy the same rights that they currently have.

Joanna Denton also used the occasion for formally announce that for personal and business reasons she is stepping down as chair at the end of her current mandate, by the time of the chamber’s annual general meeting in Aril. “We are already working on a succession plan,” she said.