Compromise that accepts Irish realities: Progress on Brexit talks

To use a metaphor rooted in one of the passions people on both sides of the Irish Sea share with an equal but competing zeal — the fence akin to the Grand National’s Becher’s Brook has been, in terms of the divorce negotiations between Britain and the European Union, navigated successfully at the first time of asking. But as any racing watcher who knows their Rule the World from their One For Arthur understands that daunting obstacle must be negotiated twice before finishing-straight tactics can be applied. A satisfactory conclusion remains a hope yet to be realised.

Yesterday’s announcements that a deal had been struck that would allow Brexit talks move on must be welcomed — even if that welcome must be qualified until the full terms, and their application, are understood and seen.