Barnier Voices Caution as Brexit Negotiators Race to a Deal
- EU’s chief negotiator warns diplomats no guarantee of a deal
- Some governments are concerned Barnier is giving too much away
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British and European Union officials are racing to strike a post-Brexit trade deal before the start of next week, with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier telling envoys the outcome is still too close to call.
While intensive, round-the-clock talks in London are making progress, genuine disagreement remains on fisheries and a level playing field, meaning it’s impossible to predict an outcome with any certainty, people with knowledge of the discussions said. A third issue -- how a deal would be enforced -- can only be overcome at the end. However, two officials said the general mood on both sides is one of optimism.