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Brexit may scale down judicatory approach towards Russia in EU

First Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Vassily Likhachov noted that "Britain was one of the toughest critics of Russia in the EU"

BERLIN, June 25. /TASS/. Results of the British referendum on leaving the European Union will divert the attention in London and other European capitals away from the judicatory sentiments towards Russia, First Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Vassily Likhachov said here on Friday.

"I can make a political forecast on the grounds of the following," he said. "It’s obvious Britain was one of the toughest critics of Russia in the EU, a proponent of extension and at times of toughening of the sanctions."

"Apparently, Russia won’t preoccupy the British government now and that’s why, quite possibly, the judicatory sentiments towards Russia will go down in the EU as a whole," Likhachov said. "This, in turn, may mean a somewhat earlier reconsideration of the policy of sanctions."

Contrary to prior opinion polls, the referendum that took place in Britain on Thursday brought victory to the ‘leave’ camp, which received 51.9% votes. The number of those who voted against withdrawing from the EU was 48.1%.

The results of the plebiscite are no legally binding and can be reviewed by parliament, which may agree or disagree with the popular opinion. Also, the authorities have an opportunity to organize a new referendum.

However, Prime Minister David Cameron said on Friday the government will honor the wish of the British people who opted for a withdrawal from the EU.