Hopes of Brexit agreement ‘receding’ as deadline for deal looms

Fishing and the so-called “level playing field” aimed at preventing unfair competition on state subsidies and standards remain the main issues to be resolved in the talks.

Union and European Union flags (Jonathan Brady/PA)

Brexit talks are due to continue on Friday amid warnings the prospect of a breakthrough is “receding”.

Negotiations between the UK and EU seemed to stall on Thursday – with Britain claiming Brussels was calling for fresh concessions at the 11th hour.