TRADE talks between the UK and European Union remain in limbo despite further discussions.
Lead negotiators Lord Frost and Michel Barnier spoke yesterday but Downing Street said there had not been a breakthrough.
Talks on the future trading relationship between the UK and EU stalled last week and Downing Street has insisted there is no point in resuming unless Brussels changes its approach.
Brussels said both sides will need to compromise if an agreement is to be reached, with the transition deadline looming on December 31.
Following talks with Lord Frost, Barnier said: “We should be making the most out of the little time left. Our door remains open.”
READ MORE: Internal Market Bill: UK Government suffers heavy Lords defeat
A Number 10 spokesman said the negotiators will “remain in contact”.
Downing Street wants a “clear assurance” that the EU will make a “fundamental change in approach” to the talks.
Johnson and Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove expressed hopes of a successful Brexit transition after speaking to 250 business leaders yesterday.
With the UK insisting it may need to leave the bloc on “Australian-style” trade terms, rather than a more comprehensive “Canada-style” agreement, the Prime Minister insisted Britain would prosper outside the EU.
Johnson said: “Our job is to create the platform for dynamic businesses such as yours to compete and to grow.
“But it is vital that everybody on this call takes seriously the need to get ready, because whatever happens, whether it’s Canada or Australia, change is going to happen.”
Gove said: “We know that this December 31 we will be leaving the customs union and single market come what may.
“It’s in law, and it’s a fact that the EU and UK accept as immoveable, and that means we need to make sure we’re ready.”
Meanwhile, in the House of Lords, the Government suffered a defeat over the UK Internal Market Bill.
Peers backed a “regret” amendment by a majority of 226, condemning the contentious provisions and warning they “would undermine the rule of law and damage the reputation of the United Kingdom”.
Lord Keen of Elie was one of the Tory rebels. He resigned as advocate general for Scotland over the legislation.
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