PM denies EU’s claim of human rights snub

BORIS Johnson last night rejected claims he is refusing to back human rights protections in any trade deal with the EU.

The Prime Minister was stung into responding after EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier suggested the UK does not want to commit to applying the European Convention on Human Rights.

And in a further ratcheting up of the rhetoric Mr Barnier said Britain will face “lots of consequences” if it walks away from post-Brexit trade talks.

After four days of talks with a UK team led by David Frost, he told a press conference that the UK could not expect “business as usual” after the December deadline if it refuses to give ground.

But the Prime Minister’s spokesman said: “The UK is committed to the European Convention on Human Rights and protecting human rights and championing them at home and abroad.

Standards

“But we believe that this does not require an additional binding international legal commitment.”

The war of words comes amid growing frustration in No10 over EU demands.

The two sides are also deadlocked on Brussels’ claims for the UK to maintain a level playing field over rules and standards on trade, the role of the European Court of Justice and fisheries.

Talks are expected to alternate between Brussels and London, with each round of negotiations held every two to three weeks.

The next is due in London from March 18 for three days.

A Government spokesman said: “We have just concluded the first round of negotiations and are pleased with the constructive tone.

“This round was a chance for both sides to set out their positions and views.”