May in double bind in bid to negotiate politics of Brexit

UK prime minister Theresa May is in a double bind as she tries to navigate the politics of Brexit while keeping businesses on side: Even when she thinks she’s giving companies what they want, they say she’s made it worse.

May is set to ask the EU to let the UK keep access to its single market and customs union for a period after Brexit to help businesses adjust — but a Toyota Motor executive warned the increased uncertainty of a transition phase could force it to move production elsewhere.

She is preparing to deliver a speech outlining her current approach to the divorce. Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond this week gave an insight into its contents by saying the UK government wants a “status quo” transition.