U.K. politicians expressed dismay Thursday after the European Union booted Britain out of the contest to become European Capital of Culture because of Brexit. Britain was due to hold the title in 2023, and five British cities and regions were competing to be chosen. Britain had previously advised U.K. candidate cities that their eligibility would depend on the outcome of exit negotiations with the EU, which are still underway. Designation as a capital of culture typically brings attention, investment and a tourism boost to the host cities. The U.K. as a whole voted to leave the EU in a referendum last year, but Scotland voted by a wide margin to remain.

Source: ABC News November 23, 2017 16:51 UTC