Deadlock in post-Brexit trade and fisheries talks

The Times has reported that Boris Johnson has demanded that British fishermen double the size of their catch from Britain’s coastal waters, leading to deadlock in post-Brexit trade and fisheries talks.

Leading points

European Union negotiators said the British position would lead to the loss of one in three fishing boats in Europe, and rejected the proposal out of hand.

The impasse has added to growing pessimism on both sides about a “critical” negotiating round next week.

Senior Downing Street figures put the chances of a deal at 30 to 40 per cent.

The two sides are also at loggerheads over state aid and other key issues, with no sign that either London or Brussels is prepared to compromise.