Parting is such sweet sorrow...

So, what is this Article 50 and how does it work?  Prior to the Lisbon Treaty of 2009 there was no "official" way of withdrawing from the EU.  This was seen as a potential problem so at Lisbon they introduced Article 50 which set out the procedure for a member country to leave the Union.  On paper it's all very straightforward - the country wanting to leave gives notice under Article 50 and then has two years to sort out the practicalities.  At the end of that time they are out.  There is provision for the two-year period to be extended, but it requires the agreement of all the other member countries.  But the crucial point is that the leaving country is in control of the starting gun - in the present situation it is up to us when - if ever - we give notice under Article 50.  We can't be forced to do so by the other EU countries, however much they may wish us to get on with it.  And as mentioned in a previous post, the referendum result has no legal force and does not oblige the Government to  act on it.  So we have a situation where the Government can stick Article 50 behind its ear as it were, and decide when, if ever, to activate it.  Advantage us for the time being, I think.