LONDON: British and European Union officials are racing to strike a post-Brexit trade deal before the start of next week, with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier telling envoys the outcome is still too close to call.
While intensive, round-the-clock talks in London are making progress, genuine disagreement remained on the two biggest obstacles, meaning it is impossible to predict an outcome with any certainty, people with knowledge of the discussions said. A third issue – how the deal would be enforced – can only be overcome at the end. However, two officials said the general mood on both sides is one of optimism.