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It is, maybe, time to explain how diplomatic language works. All too often we get the “but every trading nation wants to trade with us” line as evidence that it’ll be raining free trade agreements that will make paradise appear instantaneously. So: a short thread on this
1) The UK is the 6th largest economy of the world, possibly the 7th, maybe even the 5th. Everyone actually DOES want to benefit from trade with the UK. That was true five years ago. That will be true five years from now.
2) No country would say “we don’t want a free trade deal with you”. Because: WHY would you say that? It only creates unnecessary conflict. And saying “we are looking forward to a closer relationship” doesn’t hurt. In fact, it is irrelevant.
I know that with our Prime Minister referring to the French as turds and winning a limerick context on the Turkish President and sex with goats we might have forgotten, but regular diplomatic language is, well, different. Here’s a sample note verbale 
3) Now when we get to FTA negotiations, these will be tough. They always are. Because you are pushed around by numerous constituencies. And the outcome?
4) FTAs are beneficials. Most of them at least. But the benefit is limit. Do not expect economic paradise. I say that with sadness, because boy would that line of my research be popular if it would bring paradise instantaneously.
Limited *sigh*
