Proposal by Finland (which currently holds EU presidency)to impose deadline of 11 days on Johnson government to come up with written proposals on how to replace backstop with the threat that otherwise it is “over” is understandable but surely impractical /1
I chatted yesterday with Luxembourg PM @Xavier_Bettel who expressed again - what one hears from all EU figures - a) frustration at lack of concrete, legally enforceable UK proposals b) warning that Johnson can’t turn up last minute with said proposals at EU leaders summit /2 
Mr Bettel emphasised that EU leaders need to be able to consider UK proposals before they sign up to them. They need to discuss document with their cabinet/parliament back home. The Finnish idea is clearly an attempt to force UK hand ahead of summit but if UK doesn’t comply? /3
The Finish threat of “then it’s over” rings rather hollow. By law the UK remains an EU member state till 31 Oct. Are EU leaders really going to turn backs on even faintest possibility of deal? If nothing else the political optics are bad /4
Merkel has repeatedly insisted she’ll keep working for a deal “till last moment”. Juncker keeps promising the Commission’s door remains open 24/7.. There is no trust in Johnson gov but all sides want a deal .. /5
Of course “wanting” is one thing. “Compromising” is another and even then you’d have to get a “compromise” deal through Parliament with Johnson being such a divisive PM to boot ... That’s why EU side believes No Deal still v likely while hoping hoping it won’t happen /6
“I would love us all to be able to say in a few weeks .. phew we did it” @Xavier_Bettel told me. He’s no fan of the thought of another #Brexit extension but says noone can judge if a deal by mid Oct is realistic or not until the EU sees legally operable realistic UK proposals /7
Mr Bettel told me his meeting with BJohnson was good on Monday BUT that he came with ideas only -no detailed proposals. (On podium gate: @Xavier_Bettel insisted to me he never intended to offend/ humiliate. Says was a unfortunate set of circumstances) /8
EU dismisses UK argument that gov can’t put anything on paper bc will be ripped apart (by EU, UK media, MPs). EU hoping the multitude of tight spots the PM finds himself in will force him to concentrate earlier and more seriously on deal-making in Brussels /9
