Germans ‘block’ trade talks
GERMANY is blocking the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator from opening trade talks with the UK, it is claimed.
Michel Barnier is understood to be keen to discuss trading relationships as soon as possible.
But Angela Merkel’s government is reportedly holding up discussions as it wants more guarantees from Britain on the EU divorce bill.
Germany is said to be holding out Her promise was welcomed by the Brexit-backing European Research Group of Tory MPs last night.
The group’s chairwoman Suella Fernandes said it was “great that Number 10 has confirmed a Government allocation of £250million for Brexit preparations”.
Earlier, Mr Hammond triggered for Britain to agree to pay a massive £78billion.
A diplomat reportedly told a Brussels correspondent: “Germany wants more and it wants it more or less in writing. That is toxic for the British.”
The shift in Mr Barnier’s stance comes amid rising panic in Brussels that Britain is serious about walking away from talks. concerns by suggesting cash for preparing for a “no-deal scenario” should be withheld until there was “clear evidence” it was needed.
“I am clear we have to be prepared for a no-deal scenario unless and until we have clear evidence that is not where we will end up,” he told the Commons Treasury Committee. “What I am not proposing to do is allocate funds to departments in advance of the need to spend it.
“We should look at each area for the last point when spending can begin to ensure we are ready.”
Anti-Brexit Tory MPs have accused the Treasury of being too downbeat about the Brexit process.