Theresa May dismisses claims from EU that the UK is delaying Brexit talks
The prime minister’s spokesperson said Ms May has repeatedly set out government’s position on future relations with the bloc.
Downing Street has dismissed claims made by the EU’s chief negotiator that the UK is impeding Brexit talks by failing to set out a clear blueprint for future relations.
Theresa May’s spokesman suggested Michel Barnier’s disparaging comments are the inevitable “public commentary” ahead of a new round of talks, but that Ms May would focus on discussions at the negotiating table.
It comes ahead of a meeting of her Brexit cabinet on Wednesday, where she will meet ministers under pressure from different factions of the party over the government’s position on a post-withdrawal customs union.
UK holding up Brexit talks with lack of clarity, Michel Barnier says
The government suffered a massive defeat in the Lords this week on its plan to quit the existing customs union after EU withdrawal, raising concerns among Brexiteers that Ms May could opt to remain within it.
After Mr Barnier’s call for “clarity” in a speech last night, Ms May’s spokesman said: “The prime minister has clearly set out her vision for a deep partnership with the European Union, in Florence, Munich and recently at Mansion House speech, which was welcomed by the
European Commission.
“Secondly I would say that whenever we start a new round of negotiations, there is inevitably some public commentary.
“What we are focussed on delivering is the PM’s vision in the negotiation room.”