“Plus ca change,” you could say. Round four of EU-UK trade talks: cue yet another downbeat assessment from both sides’ chief negotiators /1
“Progress remains limited”noted David Frost in his customary written statement. Michel Barnier said "I don’t think we can go on like this forever…on top of that as you know the UK has refused to extend the transition period in other words to allow more time for negotiations.“/2
BUT before you rush to join the “No deal is now the most likely outcome” school of thought: while both sides continue to insist loudly that they stand firm - on all issues linked to national sovereignty for the UK; on anything associated with the single market for the EU - .. /3
These assurances can also be viewed as a message for domestic audiences .. while both sides quietly consider what compromises they could actually make. Sift carefully through Michel Barnier’s rhetoric today.. /4
Amongst the accusatory statements and words of disappointment, you’ll find hints of potential wiggle-room from Brussels: a possible softening of EU demands on state aid rules and fishing quotas and an admission, that.. /5
If a deal were close this autumn, there would almost certainly be what Mr Barnier called a “dense” period of last-minute negotiations – in other words: pressure to find compromise. Brussels is waiting for a sign the UK is willing to make concessions too. /6
The sense in Brussels is: If there’s to be a deal by the end of the year, the (political) decision will ultimately be made in Downing Street, not round the EU table. /7
