EU negotiating chief Michel Barnier sends mixed messages this morning. Says turning good intentions into legally operable text is getting more and more difficult but .. adds could still be possible this week (??) /1
Bets on that next 48 hours will be mixed message-heavy with both UK and EU wanting to sound steadfast in own positions yet at same time as though they’re doing their utmost to get deal done .. A marketing challenge but political will to get deal done ASAP is palpable /2
Still looks v tough to get over line this week IF finding an EU-UK middle ground is not only to be agreed but translated into legal text. Possibility being discussed of joint text at summit on thurs/Friday saying progress is there, just need teensy insy bit more time (honest) /3
All EU eyes would then turn to Westminster and extraordinary session in Parliament this Saturday. Could PM avoid being forced into requesting new Brexit extension? Or given reprieve till end of month? EU certainly not keen to look into no deal abyss again if possible /4
