British Brexit chief in ‘serious talks’ with Brussels over ditching hated backstop – but ‘not there yet’, reveals Dutch minister
BORIS Johnson’s Brexit negotiator is having "serious talks" with Brussels over the hated Northern Irish backstop - but the sides are “not there yet”, a Dutch minister has revealed.
David Frost was sent to meet EU chiefs and find a solution to the biggest stumbling block in Brexit with just a month remaining to the October 31 deadline.
EU Attitudes towards a new deal have softened in recent weeks with the PM making a good impression with his statecraft at the G7 summit in Biarritz.
Government sources said they want to take advantage of the positive noises to "prise" open the Withdrawal Agreement.
Dutch Foreign Minister Stephan Blok said progress was being made – but there were still some way to go before a new deal can be sorted.
He explained: "I know that there have been serious talks in Brussels but we are not there yet.”
The backstop was a mechanism suggested by May’s team that would keep the sensitive Irish border open after Brexit by tying Britain to EU trading rules – and preserve the Good Friday Agreement.
BACKSTOP TALKS
But sources said that Mr Frost didn't come forward with a fresh, details plan on what could replace the hated backstop, during his meetings with the EU.
An EU diplomat said: "They presented nothing concrete but are to return next week and said they want to test ideas with the Commission.
"In the meantime, Johnson has taken everyone by surprise and put the opposition firmly on the spot. He is pushing for an early election - we just don't know if before, or after Oct.31."
Boris has warned the bloc that Britain will be leaving “do or die” by the Halloween deadline.
I know that there have been serious talks in Brussels but we are not there yet.
Stephan Blok
However, he has repeatedly stated that he wants a deal – but refuses to compromise on the backstop.
UK Sherpa Frost apparently told Euro parliament officials that a deal was the government's “first option”, according to the FT.
Boris’ tough stance has appeared to have finally shown Brussels that the PM won’t be bullied like his predecessor was.
His meetings with top Brexit players at the G7 including Emmanuel Macron and Donald Tusk impressed the EU.
But they are now fully aware that while the PM does not want No Deal - he will pursue it they do not play ball.
Bo-Jo's decision to suspend Parliament has also caused ripples in Brussels with Brexit chiefs criticising the bold move.
Guy Verhofstadt described Boris’ plan as “sinister”.
MOST READ IN POLITICS
He ranted on Twitter: “"Taking back control" has never looked so sinister. As a fellow parliamentarian, my solidarity with those fighting for their voices to be heard.
“Suppressing debate on profound choices is unlikely to help deliver a stable future EU - UK relationship.”
While the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barner said: “PM Boris Johnson has said that the UK will leave the EU on 31 Oct.
“In all circumstances, the EU will continue to protect the interests of its citizens and companies, as well as the conditions for peace and stability on the island of Ireland. It is our duty & our responsibility."
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online news team? Email us at [email protected] or call 0207 782 4368 . You can WhatsApp us on 07810 791 502. We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.