EU should be firm with Britain but not punish it, French spokesman says

FILE PHOTO - The government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux listens to French Prime Minister who delivers a speech at the Elysee Palace after the first weekly cabinet meeting of the year and a government seminar in Paris, France, January 3, 2018. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier

PARIS (Reuters) - Europeans should take a firm line in negotiations over Britain's exit from the European Union but not seek to punish or humiliate London, the French government's spokesman said on Monday.

A European Commission document envisaging powers to restrict British access to the single market during the transition period after Brexit if it violates agreed rules caused furore among British conservatives last week.