British Prime Minister Boris Johnson says there is still ‘substantial disagreement’ over Brexit deal, as EU leaders toughen stance
- In his first news conference since becoming prime minister, Johnson reiterated that Britain would not be required to transfer US$48 billion owed to the EU
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson acknowledged Monday that reaching a new withdrawal deal with the European Union will be a challenge as there was “substantial disagreement” between the two sides, but said he remained committed to trying.
Johnson also clashed with EU officials over whether Britain must pay the so-called divorce bill agreed with the EU in negotiations over the past few years – even in the event of a no-deal Brexit.
French President Emmanuel Macron meanwhile toughened his tone, saying that he was determined that any withdrawal agreement had to “protect Europe” and suggesting that Johnson “is perhaps playing poker”.
In his first news conference since becoming prime minister, Johnson reiterated comments from the weekend, suggesting that Britain would not be required to transfer £39 billion (US$48 billion) owed to the EU – a sum agreed under his predecessor Theresa May.
“Substantial sums will be available from the £39 billion from the UK to spend on our priorities, including managing that no-deal scenario,” he told reporters following the G7 summit in Biarritz, France.