European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and UK prime minister Boris Johnson will speak on Saturday in an attempt to unblock talks on a post-Brexit trade deal.
For months, the main sticking points in the negotiations have been the same:
– Fisheries:
The EU wants to continue to maximise access to UK waters for its fishing fleets after December 31st.
The British argue the UK is now an independent coastal state and should be able to prioritise its own boats.
However, most fish caught by UK fishermen are sold in Europe and Britain needs to maintain access to EU markets.
– The level playing field:
The so-called “level playing field” rules are intended to ensure businesses on one side do not gain an unfair advantage over those on the other side.
In return for continuing access to the single market, the EU is seeking a high degree of alignment by the UK with its standards on workers rights, the environment and particularly state aid for businesses.
The British say the point of leaving is for the UK to be able to set its own standards.
– Governance:
The two sides are still at odds over the mechanisms for enforcing any agreement and resolving disputes.
The British have been adamant that the UK is an independent sovereign state and cannot accept the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice.
