On November 14, 2018, the UK government released a draft withdrawal agreement outlining the terms of its departure from the European Union. The agreement, which is still subject to negotiation and approval by all parties involved, has sparked a variety of responses from politicians, industry leaders, and citizens alike.

One of the most significant features of the agreement is the proposed “backstop” plan for avoiding a hard border between Northern Ireland (which is part of the UK) and the Republic of Ireland (which will remain in the EU). This plan would involve the UK staying in a “single customs territory” with the EU until a permanent solution is found. Some have praised this proposal as a pragmatic and workable solution to a difficult problem, while others have criticized it as tantamount to keeping the UK in the EU indefinitely.

Another major point of contention is the proposed financial settlement, which would see the UK pay a “divorce bill” of around £39 billion to cover its outstanding financial commitments to the EU. Many Brexiteers argue that this amount is too high, while others argue that it is a necessary price to pay in order to secure a smooth exit from the EU.

Perhaps the most impassioned response to the draft agreement has come from those who feel that it fails to deliver on the promises of Brexit. Many Leave voters believed that leaving the EU would give the UK greater control over its laws, borders, and trade policies, but the proposed withdrawal agreement would still leave the UK subject to many EU rules and regulations. Some critics have called for a “hard Brexit” that would sever all ties with the EU, while others have called for a second referendum to give voters a chance to reconsider their decision.

It is clear that the draft withdrawal agreement has generated a wide range of opinions and emotions. As Brexit continues to be a highly polarizing issue, it remains to be seen whether this agreement will be accepted or rejected by all parties involved – and whether it will ultimately lead to a smooth and successful exit of the UK from the European Union.