Progress on Brexit talks is reason to be cheerful

BRITAIN’S efforts to break the Brexit deadlock appear close to bearing fruit. After Theresa May’s speech in Florence last week in which she took a conciliatory tone towards our friends in the EU, David Davis yesterday announced that he has made “decisive steps forward” during the latest round of talks with negotiators in Brussels.

There are still sticking points and it is disappointing that EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has not shown greater flexibility regarding a potential Brexit bill and the future role of European judges.

Nevertheless, given the difficulties so far, any progress is something to be cheered.

Even the BBC, a hotbed of Remain-backing liberals, yesterday chose to lead the news pages on its website with the upbeat comments from Mr Davis. When even the frequently anti-Brexit corporation is spreading the good news, you can be sure it is significant.

As well as a good result for Mr Davis, this is a vindication for Mrs May. Her speech last week was designed to reset the Brexit process and encourage all involved to focus their minds on reaching a deal. The early indication is that she has succeeded.

There is a long way to go until Britain finally leaves the EU and the path towards a free trade deal will not always be smooth.

Evidence that Brussels is ready to talk sincerely and work seriously towards a deal is a great sign that we are travelling in the right direction.