The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Negotiators and Tories clash over UK’s single market benefits following Brexit
The UK cannot leave the single market and enjoy all of its benefits, the EU’s chief negotiator said in his first major speech since official talks began.
Michel Barnier said there are some on the British side of the table who have not grasped the EU’s position.
He also warned that the impact of failed talks would hit the UK hardest, adding there would be “no reasonable justification” for Britain crashing out of the EU without a deal.
His comments fly in the face of the stance taken by Brexit Secretary David Davis – his opposite number in the negotiations – who has said he hopes a new trade deal will deliver the “exact same benefits” as single market membership.
Mr Barnier said: “I have heard some people in the UK argue that one can leave the single market and keep all of its benefits. That is not possible.
“I have heard some people in the UK argue that one can leave the single market and build a customs union to achieve frictionless trade. That is not possible.
“The decision to leave the EU has consequences and I have to explain to citizens, businesses and civil society on both sides of the Channel what those consequences mean for them.
“These consequences are the direct result of the choice made by the UK, not by the EU. There is no punishment for Brexit and of course no spirit of revenge.
“But Brexit has a cost, also for business in the EU27 and businesses should assess with lucidity the negative consequences of the UK choice on trade and investment and prepare to manage that.”
Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson told a press conference in London: “I think what all sides want to see is a great free trade deal that benefits both sides of the Channel.
“That’s manifestly in the interests of the UK but also it’s in the interests of our European friends and partners.
“I have absolutely no doubt we will be able to get there.”
Earlier, Liam Fox, the International Trade Secretary, told MPs Britain’s free trade agreement with the EU “ought to be the easiest in global history”.
He added only politics taking precedence over the economics, prosperity and wellbeing of the people will hamper efforts to develop such a “free and open” trading environment.
Jeremy Corbyn has said he will have an “extended meeting” with Mr Barnier in Brussels next week.
Speaking to Bloomberg TV, the Labour leader repeated his position that Labour was seeking “tariff-free access” to the European single market, rather than membership but declined to say whether he would be willing to pay for it.