Today, at last, there is a new deal. The EU has signed up to it. Our Prime Minister is convinced it makes sense and the up-to-the-wire negotiations have been, it seems, successful.
Please take time to study the small print - there are two essential documents: I make no apology for reproducing both texts in full:
First, the revised agreement itself - including a vital section on Ireland. This demonstrates what the deal seeks to do and how. Then the “political declaration”, an equally important and legally binding document. If Parliament votes to accept both of these, however narrow the margin, then the frustrating, n
ail-biting, indecisive era which has plagued us all for over three years will finally be over.
But it is only fair to emphasise the word “if”.
Parliament will meet in a crucial session on Saturday. Watch this space.