Remarks to the Press by Ambassador Matthew Rycroft,

UK Permanent Representative to the United Nations

Friday 24 June
Let me say 3 things about the British Referendum on Europe.
First and most important the British people have spoken. They have
decided to leave the European Union, and that is what the UK will do.
Secondly, the process of leaving the European Union will be lengthy and
complex. It will take 2 years from a date set by the British Prime Minister
in the coming months. Throughout that period of over two years, the UK
will remain an integral and full member of the European Union with all of
the rights and responsibilities that that entails.
And thirdly, even beyond that period of time the fundamentals of the UKs
strength in the world will endure. Our economy, our world class diplomacy
and armed forces, our commitment to international development helping
the worlds poorest and above all, here at the United Nations, our
permanent seat on the Security Council.