‘The clock is ticking’: EU warns a lot of work still to be done before Brexit deal
- European Union’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has been briefing ambassadors on negotiations
The European Union’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier warned diplomats on Sunday that “a lot of work remains to be done” in withdrawal talks between London and Brussels.
The European Commission issued a statement soon after Barnier briefed EU ambassadors on the negotiations, just four days before a key European summit.
“Michel Barnier briefed EU27 ambassadors this afternoon, following constructive technical-level talks with the United Kingdom over the weekend,” it said.
“He will also inform the European Parliament’s Brexit Steering Group this evening. A lot of work remains to be done,” it warned.
A European diplomat familiar with Sunday’s briefing confirmed that there had not been any sign of a quick resolution to the crisis, and suggested Britain’s position had not moved far enough.
“No breakthrough yet. Intensive discussions continue. Overall not an easy starting position – also because only a few days remain until the European Council,” the source said.