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Emmanuel Macron tells Boris Johnson backstop is 'indispensable' – live Emmanuel Macron tells Boris Johnson backstop is 'indispensable' – live
(32 minutes later)
Here are the main points from what Emmanuel Macron, the French president, and Boris Johnson said in their opening statements and Q&A.
Macron said the key features of the Irish backstop were “indispensable”. He said:
I would like to say that the key elements of this agreement, including the Irish backstop, are not just technical constraints or legal quibbling, but indeed genuine, indispensable guarantees to preserve stability in Ireland [and] to preserve the integrity of the single market which is the foundation of the European project.
He said that any new version of the withdrawal agreement proposed by the UK would have to be very similar to the existing one for it to be acceptable to the EU. He said:
We will not find a new withdrawal agreement within 30 days that will be very different from the existing one.
He identified the “two goals” of the backstop that were non-negotiable. He said:
The Irish backstop, as we call it, is a point that has been negotiated in the context of the geography of Ireland and the past political situation.
So it is an important element that allows us first of all to guarantee the stability in Ireland and also the integrity of the single market. These are our two goals.
When you talk about flexibility, well let me be very clear with you, these two goals have to be met.
We therefore have to find a solution that guarantees the integrity of the single market.
We have to be able to guarantee to companies, to citizens and consumers in Europe that comply with the rules of the European Union and whatever comes from a market that is not in the European Union is controlled.
He backed what Angela Merkel said yesterday about the need for the UK to come up with an alternative to the backstop within 30 days. But he played down the idea that this amounted to a new timetable, arguing that in practice it would be impossible to wait until the end of October before deciding if a no-deal Brexit could be avoided. He explained:
What Angela Merkel said yesterday and which is very much in line with the discussions we have had since the very beginning is that we need visibility in 30 days.
I believe that this also matches the goal of Prime Minister Johnson. No one will wait until October 31 to find the right solution.
He said it would be possible to find a solution by the middle of next month if there was goodwill on both sides.
We should all together be able to find something smart within 30 days if there is goodwill on both sides.
He also said the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, could be involved in finding an answer “without totally reshuffling the withdrawal agreement.
He played down the idea that he was the hard man in the Brexit process. He explained:
I’ve always been presented as the hard boy in the group but it’s just that I have always been clear: a choice was made and we cannot just ignore it. We have to implement a decision taken by the British people.
Johnson said that he had been “powerfully encouraged” by his talks in Berlin last night about the prospects of reaching a deal.
I want to make it absolutely clear to you Emmanuel - to the French people - that of course I want a deal. I think we can get a deal and a good deal. I was powerfully encouraged by our conversations last night in Berlin with our mutual friends. I know that with energy and creativity and application we can find a way forward for all our businesses and our citizens.
He also said it was “very interesting to hear some of the positive noises that we’re now hearing about the ways that [replacing the backstop] can be done.”
And this what some journalists and commentators are saying about the Q&A.And this what some journalists and commentators are saying about the Q&A.
From AFP’s Adam PlowrightFrom AFP’s Adam Plowright
Macron backs another month of Brexit talks about the Irish border, knowing well that no solution will be found. Face-saving. Same approach taken by Merkel. All about trying to avoid blame for 'no deal' if it comes to passMacron backs another month of Brexit talks about the Irish border, knowing well that no solution will be found. Face-saving. Same approach taken by Merkel. All about trying to avoid blame for 'no deal' if it comes to pass
From the Sun’s Tom Newton DunnFrom the Sun’s Tom Newton Dunn
Macron meets Johnson in Paris: Macron calls the backstop "not just legal quibbling" but "genuine, indispensable guarantees". Not a great start.Macron meets Johnson in Paris: Macron calls the backstop "not just legal quibbling" but "genuine, indispensable guarantees". Not a great start.
But will you cut Boris some slack to come up with an alternative, like Merkel did? Macron reluctantly agrees: "We need visibility in 30 days. Nobody will wait to October 31 to find the right solution".But will you cut Boris some slack to come up with an alternative, like Merkel did? Macron reluctantly agrees: "We need visibility in 30 days. Nobody will wait to October 31 to find the right solution".
And the blame game continues. Macron's final point was to stick any No Deal on Boris. If no new solution is possible, PM will have to make "a political decision". Adds: "It will not be our decision".And the blame game continues. Macron's final point was to stick any No Deal on Boris. If no new solution is possible, PM will have to make "a political decision". Adds: "It will not be our decision".
From my colleague Dan SabbaghFrom my colleague Dan Sabbagh
Macron plays along with Johnson's 30 day Brexit deadline, for diplomatic reasons, but then adds there is very little chance of renegotiating the withdrawal agreement. Msg is clear from France: we want to be seen to have given you one last chance but....Macron plays along with Johnson's 30 day Brexit deadline, for diplomatic reasons, but then adds there is very little chance of renegotiating the withdrawal agreement. Msg is clear from France: we want to be seen to have given you one last chance but....
From Barron’s Group’s Pierre BriançonFrom Barron’s Group’s Pierre Briançon
Shorter Macron-Bojo presser: nothing has moved, but let's keep talking anyway. #BrexitShorter Macron-Bojo presser: nothing has moved, but let's keep talking anyway. #Brexit
From the Institute for Government’s Georgina WrightFrom the Institute for Government’s Georgina Wright
7. My take on Macron:- Repeats EU stance: open to further talks but UK must put fwd workable alternatives that solve border & protect SM- Says time is short: cautions that WA is unlikely to fundamentally change- Reminds that EU Commission who negotiates, not EU leaders. END.7. My take on Macron:- Repeats EU stance: open to further talks but UK must put fwd workable alternatives that solve border & protect SM- Says time is short: cautions that WA is unlikely to fundamentally change- Reminds that EU Commission who negotiates, not EU leaders. END.
Here we go again; just as when Boris Johnson met Angela Merkel in Berlin last night, his opening public exchanges with Emmanuel Macron were warm – and considerably friendlier than some of their comments about each other in the past (see 9.25am) – but there was nothing in what Macron said to suggest that a solution to the backstop quandary is any closer than it has been for months. Macron suggested that he was unhappy about being cast as the “hard man” in the process. But he was also very clear that a mechanism was needed to protect the Northern Ireland peace process and the integrity of the single market, and he said any version of the withdrawal agreement drawn up by Johnson within the next 30 days that might be acceptable to the EU would be much the same as the one already on the table. There are polite ways of saying no, and harsh ways of saying no, and Merkel and Macron (in their public remarks, at least) have been charm personified. But four weeks ago Johnson was telling Merkel and Macron that the backstop would have go for a Brexit deal to be possible. This week, they are telling him, that on the fundamentals of what the backstop is all about, they are not willing to budge. For obvious reasons, Johnson is keen to put a positive gloss on all of this, telling journalists at the Q&A that he came away from Berlin “powerfully encouraged”. But, as students of Johnson’s journalistic career know all too well, his analysis of developments in the EU has never been noted for its accuracy ...Here we go again; just as when Boris Johnson met Angela Merkel in Berlin last night, his opening public exchanges with Emmanuel Macron were warm – and considerably friendlier than some of their comments about each other in the past (see 9.25am) – but there was nothing in what Macron said to suggest that a solution to the backstop quandary is any closer than it has been for months. Macron suggested that he was unhappy about being cast as the “hard man” in the process. But he was also very clear that a mechanism was needed to protect the Northern Ireland peace process and the integrity of the single market, and he said any version of the withdrawal agreement drawn up by Johnson within the next 30 days that might be acceptable to the EU would be much the same as the one already on the table. There are polite ways of saying no, and harsh ways of saying no, and Merkel and Macron (in their public remarks, at least) have been charm personified. But four weeks ago Johnson was telling Merkel and Macron that the backstop would have go for a Brexit deal to be possible. This week, they are telling him, that on the fundamentals of what the backstop is all about, they are not willing to budge. For obvious reasons, Johnson is keen to put a positive gloss on all of this, telling journalists at the Q&A that he came away from Berlin “powerfully encouraged”. But, as students of Johnson’s journalistic career know all too well, his analysis of developments in the EU has never been noted for its accuracy ...
Macron says Angela Merkel said yesterday there would have to be “visibility” within 30 days as to what an alternative to the backstop might look like. People would not wait until 31 October for a solution, he says.Macron says Angela Merkel said yesterday there would have to be “visibility” within 30 days as to what an alternative to the backstop might look like. People would not wait until 31 October for a solution, he says.
He says Michel Barnier, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, will be involved in talks.He says Michel Barnier, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, will be involved in talks.
He says, if there is goodwill on both sides, there could be a solution.He says, if there is goodwill on both sides, there could be a solution.
He says he is presented as the hard man in the negotiations. But he wants a solution. However, he has been clear that we will not find a new withdrawal agreement within 30 days that will be very different to the existing one.He says he is presented as the hard man in the negotiations. But he wants a solution. However, he has been clear that we will not find a new withdrawal agreement within 30 days that will be very different to the existing one.
He says the agreement could be amended, though.He says the agreement could be amended, though.
Johnson says he admires Merkel’s “can do” spirit.Johnson says he admires Merkel’s “can do” spirit.
He says he thinks solutions to the backstop problem are available.He says he thinks solutions to the backstop problem are available.
He repeats the point about how the UK will not impose checks at the border.He repeats the point about how the UK will not impose checks at the border.
Q: What is the alternative to the backstop?Q: What is the alternative to the backstop?
Johnson says the reporter should read “an excellent paper” produced by Greg Hands and other MPs proposing alternatives. (That is a reference to the Alternative Arrangements Commission report.)Johnson says the reporter should read “an excellent paper” produced by Greg Hands and other MPs proposing alternatives. (That is a reference to the Alternative Arrangements Commission report.)
Johnson ends by saying: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”Johnson ends by saying: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
And that’s it.And that’s it.
Q: Isn’t a no-deal Brexit a bit of a con?Q: Isn’t a no-deal Brexit a bit of a con?
Johnson says a great deal of work has already been done to ensure that the transition on 31 October will be as smooth as it can be. He says he wants to ensure all the remaining necessary work gets done before the end of October.Johnson says a great deal of work has already been done to ensure that the transition on 31 October will be as smooth as it can be. He says he wants to ensure all the remaining necessary work gets done before the end of October.
Q: Angela Merkel showed some flexibility in Berlin last night. Shouldn’t you too?Q: Angela Merkel showed some flexibility in Berlin last night. Shouldn’t you too?
Macron says the Irish backstop has been negotiated, and it is an important element that guarantees stability in Ireland and the integrity of the single market. As for flexibility, these two goals must be met. He says the EU has to guarantee to its citizens that its market will be controlled.Macron says the Irish backstop has been negotiated, and it is an important element that guarantees stability in Ireland and the integrity of the single market. As for flexibility, these two goals must be met. He says the EU has to guarantee to its citizens that its market will be controlled.
Johnson intervenes. He says under no circumstances will the UK government impose checks at the border. He understands the EU desire to protect the integrity of the single market. But he thinks that can be protected, while allowing the UK to leave.Johnson intervenes. He says under no circumstances will the UK government impose checks at the border. He understands the EU desire to protect the integrity of the single market. But he thinks that can be protected, while allowing the UK to leave.
Boris Johnson starts with Brexit. He says he wants to make it clear that he wants a deal, and he thinks he can get a deal.Boris Johnson starts with Brexit. He says he wants to make it clear that he wants a deal, and he thinks he can get a deal.
He says he was “powerfully encouraged” by his talks with Angela Merkel last night.He says he was “powerfully encouraged” by his talks with Angela Merkel last night.
But it is vital, if you have a referendum, that you do what the voters voted for. He says the UK will come out with a deal or without one.But it is vital, if you have a referendum, that you do what the voters voted for. He says the UK will come out with a deal or without one.
He says the UK-French relationship is extraordinary. Their troops are side by side in countries like Mali and Estonia. And it was the British and French, together with the Americans, who responded when President Assad used chemical weapons in Syria.He says the UK-French relationship is extraordinary. Their troops are side by side in countries like Mali and Estonia. And it was the British and French, together with the Americans, who responded when President Assad used chemical weapons in Syria.
He says the UK and France will work hand in glove at the G7 on issues like climate change and the environment.He says the UK and France will work hand in glove at the G7 on issues like climate change and the environment.
Whatever happens with Brexit, it is their joint ambition to deepen the UK/French relationship.Whatever happens with Brexit, it is their joint ambition to deepen the UK/French relationship.
He says French buses run on London roads. And TGV, the French trains, run on steel made in the UK.He says French buses run on London roads. And TGV, the French trains, run on steel made in the UK.
And London is one of the cities with the biggest French populations on earth, he says.And London is one of the cities with the biggest French populations on earth, he says.
Let’s get Brexit done, and let’s get it done “sensibly and pragmatically”, he says.Let’s get Brexit done, and let’s get it done “sensibly and pragmatically”, he says.
Emmanuel Macron starts.Emmanuel Macron starts.
He says he is pleased to welcome Boris Johnson to Paris. But they have spoken on the phone already.He says he is pleased to welcome Boris Johnson to Paris. But they have spoken on the phone already.
He says the relationship between the two countries is central and immutable.He says the relationship between the two countries is central and immutable.
He says it’s a privileged relationship. The two countries have a long history. They have treaties that go beyond the EU.He says it’s a privileged relationship. The two countries have a long history. They have treaties that go beyond the EU.
He says the engagement of both countries has always been constant.He says the engagement of both countries has always been constant.
He says, inevitably, they will talk about Brexit. He says Johnson knows his position. He says he regrets the choice by the UK to leave. If he had been a British voter, he would have voted to stay.He says, inevitably, they will talk about Brexit. He says Johnson knows his position. He says he regrets the choice by the UK to leave. If he had been a British voter, he would have voted to stay.
But the decision must be implemented, he says.But the decision must be implemented, he says.
He says he wants to ensure the EU is protected.He says he wants to ensure the EU is protected.
The EU has negotiated an agreement with the UK. It is not up to an one EU country to renegotiate it. The key elements are indispensable. It is about preserving peace in Northern Ireland, and about preserving the integrity of the single market.The EU has negotiated an agreement with the UK. It is not up to an one EU country to renegotiate it. The key elements are indispensable. It is about preserving peace in Northern Ireland, and about preserving the integrity of the single market.
He says, as a friend and ally of the UK, it is up to the UK alone to decide its destiny.He says, as a friend and ally of the UK, it is up to the UK alone to decide its destiny.
France is preparing for all eventualities, he says.France is preparing for all eventualities, he says.
He says, no matter what, the future of the UK cannot but be European.He says, no matter what, the future of the UK cannot but be European.
Our geography speaks by itself.Our geography speaks by itself.
Macron ends by saying again how pleased he is to welcome Johnson.Macron ends by saying again how pleased he is to welcome Johnson.
Boris Johnson has arrived.Boris Johnson has arrived.
Emmanuel Macron is on the steps of the Élysée waiting for Boris Johnson to arrive.Emmanuel Macron is on the steps of the Élysée waiting for Boris Johnson to arrive.
Here is the scene outside the Élysée Palace.Here is the scene outside the Élysée Palace.
Boris Johnson and Emmanuel Macron are expected to take two questions – one from a French journalist and one from a British journalist.Boris Johnson and Emmanuel Macron are expected to take two questions – one from a French journalist and one from a British journalist.
Boris Johnson is due to arrive at the Élysée Palace shortly.Boris Johnson is due to arrive at the Élysée Palace shortly.
There is a live feed at the top of this blog.There is a live feed at the top of this blog.
During the Tory leadership contest Boris Johnson claimed (implausibly) that the chances of a no-deal Brexit were a million to one. Subsequently he has admitted it is more likely than that, but he has not gone as far as David Davis, the former Brexit secretary, who told the Today programme this morning that he thought the odds on that outcome were now “50/50”. It was now “a high probability”, Davis said.During the Tory leadership contest Boris Johnson claimed (implausibly) that the chances of a no-deal Brexit were a million to one. Subsequently he has admitted it is more likely than that, but he has not gone as far as David Davis, the former Brexit secretary, who told the Today programme this morning that he thought the odds on that outcome were now “50/50”. It was now “a high probability”, Davis said.
But Davis also insisted that the dangers of a no-deal Brexit had been overblown. Dismissing the claims in the Operation Yellowhammer document leaked at the weekend as “rubbish”, Davis said:But Davis also insisted that the dangers of a no-deal Brexit had been overblown. Dismissing the claims in the Operation Yellowhammer document leaked at the weekend as “rubbish”, Davis said:
I think there will be some turbulence. There will be some bumpiness in terms of cross-border traffic and so on.I think there will be some turbulence. There will be some bumpiness in terms of cross-border traffic and so on.
When it was put to him that in the past he has said a no-deal Brexit would lead to nothing that a reasonably competent government would not be able to handle, he replied: “That’s precisely what I think.”When it was put to him that in the past he has said a no-deal Brexit would lead to nothing that a reasonably competent government would not be able to handle, he replied: “That’s precisely what I think.”
The recently-appointed Scottish secretary, Alister Jack, has ignited a furious row with the Scottish National party after claiming it was no different from other nationalist movements as it “needs an enemy to thrive”.The recently-appointed Scottish secretary, Alister Jack, has ignited a furious row with the Scottish National party after claiming it was no different from other nationalist movements as it “needs an enemy to thrive”.
In an article for the Times (paywall), his first newspaper opinion piece since being appointed by Boris Johnson, Jack wrote:In an article for the Times (paywall), his first newspaper opinion piece since being appointed by Boris Johnson, Jack wrote:
Scottish nationalists like to claim that theirs is a different kind of nationalism, somehow uniquely benign. I’m sorry but I’m not sure I can spot the difference. Like nationalist movements the world over, it requires an enemy to make it thrive. It needs an ‘other’ to rail against.Scottish nationalists like to claim that theirs is a different kind of nationalism, somehow uniquely benign. I’m sorry but I’m not sure I can spot the difference. Like nationalist movements the world over, it requires an enemy to make it thrive. It needs an ‘other’ to rail against.
Jack, a staunch Brexiteer, accused Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP of inventing grievances; using “the Westminster system” as an insult coded to attack the UK as a whole; and inventing a “fiction” that devolution no longer works.Jack, a staunch Brexiteer, accused Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP of inventing grievances; using “the Westminster system” as an insult coded to attack the UK as a whole; and inventing a “fiction” that devolution no longer works.
He said many fiercely proud Scots were comfortable being Scottish and British. Acknowledging the Brexit crisis was putting the union under strain, he blamed Sturgeon using “anger, bitterness and resentment” over Brexit to promote independence.He said many fiercely proud Scots were comfortable being Scottish and British. Acknowledging the Brexit crisis was putting the union under strain, he blamed Sturgeon using “anger, bitterness and resentment” over Brexit to promote independence.
Ian Blackford, the SNP’s Westminster leader, called on Jack to withdraw the piece on Twitter.Ian Blackford, the SNP’s Westminster leader, called on Jack to withdraw the piece on Twitter.
Wow, I am surprised the secretary of state has sunk to this level. He should withdraw this article and apologise. Lets have an informed debate of Scotland as an independent country and yes unionists should speak of their vision. This is not it. It lacks dignity. https://t.co/1gY2N8vUJGWow, I am surprised the secretary of state has sunk to this level. He should withdraw this article and apologise. Lets have an informed debate of Scotland as an independent country and yes unionists should speak of their vision. This is not it. It lacks dignity. https://t.co/1gY2N8vUJG
Some SNP figures worry about the labelling. Humza Yousaf, Holyrood’s most successful non-white MSP, and now the SNP’s justice secretary, said last week at an Edinburgh fringe event he disliked the “national” in its name.Some SNP figures worry about the labelling. Humza Yousaf, Holyrood’s most successful non-white MSP, and now the SNP’s justice secretary, said last week at an Edinburgh fringe event he disliked the “national” in its name.
I do struggle with it, because people do associate it with all the various elements of nationalism that exist. [I] think people understand that we are an open and inclusive party. But do I think that the name can present us with some challenges? For sure.I do struggle with it, because people do associate it with all the various elements of nationalism that exist. [I] think people understand that we are an open and inclusive party. But do I think that the name can present us with some challenges? For sure.
Libby Brooks, the Guardian’s Scotland correspondent, said Sturgeon had addressed this point at another Fringe event the previous day. In 2017, Sturgeon said she would prefer another one but last week claimed to be “100% comfortable” with it. Other nationalist parties, she said, were not seeking independence like hers but were nationalist in an exclusive, xenophobic sense. She said:Libby Brooks, the Guardian’s Scotland correspondent, said Sturgeon had addressed this point at another Fringe event the previous day. In 2017, Sturgeon said she would prefer another one but last week claimed to be “100% comfortable” with it. Other nationalist parties, she said, were not seeking independence like hers but were nationalist in an exclusive, xenophobic sense. She said:
Scottish independence is not just at the other end of the spectrum of that, but on another spectrum altogether. The SNP today is and I think I can say it without fear of justifiable contradiction, the most pro-immigration party in the UK which is not what you would expect of a nationalist party, so my nationalism is rooted in a desire to make the country I live in as good as it can be.Scottish independence is not just at the other end of the spectrum of that, but on another spectrum altogether. The SNP today is and I think I can say it without fear of justifiable contradiction, the most pro-immigration party in the UK which is not what you would expect of a nationalist party, so my nationalism is rooted in a desire to make the country I live in as good as it can be.
Last night I posted a summary of the immediate media reaction to the Angela Merkel/Boris Johnson press conference here. The pro-Brexit papers in the UK have put a positive gloss on what happened, with the Sun story, under the headline “We can Merk it out”, saying that Johnson was delighted with the outcome, and the Daily Mail, the Daily Telegraph and the Daily Express all splashing on stories implying the prospect of a no-deal Brexit has been reduced.Last night I posted a summary of the immediate media reaction to the Angela Merkel/Boris Johnson press conference here. The pro-Brexit papers in the UK have put a positive gloss on what happened, with the Sun story, under the headline “We can Merk it out”, saying that Johnson was delighted with the outcome, and the Daily Mail, the Daily Telegraph and the Daily Express all splashing on stories implying the prospect of a no-deal Brexit has been reduced.
Thursday's Mail: "Can we do it? Ja, we can!" #bbcpapers #tomorrowspaperstoday (via @AllieHBNews) pic.twitter.com/xqzGXAvC2RThursday's Mail: "Can we do it? Ja, we can!" #bbcpapers #tomorrowspaperstoday (via @AllieHBNews) pic.twitter.com/xqzGXAvC2R
Thursday's Telegraph: "30 days to ditch the backstop" #bbcpapers #tomorrowspaperstoday (via @AllieHBNews) pic.twitter.com/Qm5BdcLjlhThursday's Telegraph: "30 days to ditch the backstop" #bbcpapers #tomorrowspaperstoday (via @AllieHBNews) pic.twitter.com/Qm5BdcLjlh
Thursday's Express: "30 days to do a deal" #bbcpapers #tomorrowspaperstoday (via @AllieHBNews) pic.twitter.com/CwvmN1Z2isThursday's Express: "30 days to do a deal" #bbcpapers #tomorrowspaperstoday (via @AllieHBNews) pic.twitter.com/CwvmN1Z2is
But informed commentators are not so sure. Here is another round-up of what journalists and commentators have been saying about the significance of what was said at the Berlin press conference after they’ve had a bit of time to mull it over.But informed commentators are not so sure. Here is another round-up of what journalists and commentators have been saying about the significance of what was said at the Berlin press conference after they’ve had a bit of time to mull it over.
From the Guardian’s Philip OltermannFrom the Guardian’s Philip Oltermann
A few hours on from the Merkel-Johnson press conference, I am more and more struck by how quick he was to concede the onus is on UK to come up with a solution within a month. She said 30 days were a possibility, he said it's a "timetable". A sign of an inexperienced negotiator? pic.twitter.com/ZytRsjlYklA few hours on from the Merkel-Johnson press conference, I am more and more struck by how quick he was to concede the onus is on UK to come up with a solution within a month. She said 30 days were a possibility, he said it's a "timetable". A sign of an inexperienced negotiator? pic.twitter.com/ZytRsjlYkl
From Politico Europe’s Matthew KarnitschnigFrom Politico Europe’s Matthew Karnitschnig
Nice rhetorical sleight of hand by Merkel here: offer something that has always been on the table, whike making it look a concession. She’s clearly preparing for the “we did everything we could” moment on Nov. 1. https://t.co/873cW5nSl6Nice rhetorical sleight of hand by Merkel here: offer something that has always been on the table, whike making it look a concession. She’s clearly preparing for the “we did everything we could” moment on Nov. 1. https://t.co/873cW5nSl6
From ITV’s Robert PestonFrom ITV’s Robert Peston
Striking that Merkel has pulled rug from under ⁦@PhilipHammondUK⁩, the Gaukeward Squad and much of anti-no-deal posse by saying there is negotiation to be had in next 30 days on how to eliminate backstop. No wonder ⁦@BorisJohnson⁩ looks happy https://t.co/WVSlhv3ZZoStriking that Merkel has pulled rug from under ⁦@PhilipHammondUK⁩, the Gaukeward Squad and much of anti-no-deal posse by saying there is negotiation to be had in next 30 days on how to eliminate backstop. No wonder ⁦@BorisJohnson⁩ looks happy https://t.co/WVSlhv3ZZo
From Berlin Policy Journal’s Henning HoffFrom Berlin Policy Journal’s Henning Hoff
Huge misreading: Merkel isn’t negotiating, it’s Barnier/Brussels. Chancellor only polite: Who’s she to exclude possibility that genius new PM could find plausible alternative to backstop w/in 30 days? After all, she’s not in the unicorn hunting business @Peston @PhilipHammondUK https://t.co/sPTMQ7wlidHuge misreading: Merkel isn’t negotiating, it’s Barnier/Brussels. Chancellor only polite: Who’s she to exclude possibility that genius new PM could find plausible alternative to backstop w/in 30 days? After all, she’s not in the unicorn hunting business @Peston @PhilipHammondUK https://t.co/sPTMQ7wlid
From the Economist’s Sophie PedderFrom the Economist’s Sophie Pedder
Pre Johnson’s lunch in Paris today, worth recalling that a) Paris + Berlin will have carefully coordinated their positions on not renegotiating Brexit WA b) UK media’s spotting of “glimmers of hope” in Berlin consistently prove unfounded. Merkel + Macron differ in tone not policyPre Johnson’s lunch in Paris today, worth recalling that a) Paris + Berlin will have carefully coordinated their positions on not renegotiating Brexit WA b) UK media’s spotting of “glimmers of hope” in Berlin consistently prove unfounded. Merkel + Macron differ in tone not policy
From Sky’s Lewis GoodallFrom Sky’s Lewis Goodall
Think Merkel comments on 30 days are being overinterpreted. Had WA been signed, we'd be in early stages of trying to find solution to border so backstop would never be used. EU has always said find a solution,we'll work with it. That's all she said yesterday. Nothing has changed.Think Merkel comments on 30 days are being overinterpreted. Had WA been signed, we'd be in early stages of trying to find solution to border so backstop would never be used. EU has always said find a solution,we'll work with it. That's all she said yesterday. Nothing has changed.
From my colleague Jennifer RankinFrom my colleague Jennifer Rankin
If a backstop alternative was to appear in 30 days - I’m a sceptic - hard to see that UK parliament would have time to ratify deal by 31 Oct, so extension wd be needed.Above all, don’t think 30 days moves things on. Sounds like Merkel being Merkel. EU position unchanged.If a backstop alternative was to appear in 30 days - I’m a sceptic - hard to see that UK parliament would have time to ratify deal by 31 Oct, so extension wd be needed.Above all, don’t think 30 days moves things on. Sounds like Merkel being Merkel. EU position unchanged.
From the Telegraph’s Peter FosterFrom the Telegraph’s Peter Foster
This. Merkel always clear there are alternative solutions - if U.K., say, wants to be aligned, or accept NI-specific alignment. But not fantasy solutions. Not in 30 days. Or 300. Or 3,000. It needs to work. Trade border in Ireland works for SM integrity. Just not for IE/GFA. /1 https://t.co/oSEXvrSocpThis. Merkel always clear there are alternative solutions - if U.K., say, wants to be aligned, or accept NI-specific alignment. But not fantasy solutions. Not in 30 days. Or 300. Or 3,000. It needs to work. Trade border in Ireland works for SM integrity. Just not for IE/GFA. /1 https://t.co/oSEXvrSocp
Boris Johnson received a more cordial welcome than he might have expected last night when he met the German chancellor, Angela Merkel, in Berlin on his first trip abroad as PM. But today he is in Paris for lunch with the French president, Emmanuel Macron, and their exchanges might be considerably more prickly. Macron has repeatedly accused the leave campaign, that Johnson led, of lying to the British public, of all the main EU leaders he has been least willing to make concessions to the UK over Brexit, and yesterday, in a two-and-a-half hour briefing with journalists (not mainly about Johnson – the UK is not that important to France – it was a marathon event because Macron is hosting the G7 summit at the weekend) Macron delivered two very unpalatable messages for his British counterpart.Boris Johnson received a more cordial welcome than he might have expected last night when he met the German chancellor, Angela Merkel, in Berlin on his first trip abroad as PM. But today he is in Paris for lunch with the French president, Emmanuel Macron, and their exchanges might be considerably more prickly. Macron has repeatedly accused the leave campaign, that Johnson led, of lying to the British public, of all the main EU leaders he has been least willing to make concessions to the UK over Brexit, and yesterday, in a two-and-a-half hour briefing with journalists (not mainly about Johnson – the UK is not that important to France – it was a marathon event because Macron is hosting the G7 summit at the weekend) Macron delivered two very unpalatable messages for his British counterpart.
Macron said that renegotiating the EU withdrawal agreement was “not an option”. Johnson says, without a renegotiation, there will be no Brexit deal.Macron said that renegotiating the EU withdrawal agreement was “not an option”. Johnson says, without a renegotiation, there will be no Brexit deal.
Macron suggested that Brexit would stop the UK being a great power. This was particularly provocative because Johnson claims that Brexit will enhance the UK’s independence and prestige. But Macron argued that Brexit would leave the UK dependent on the US. He said:Macron suggested that Brexit would stop the UK being a great power. This was particularly provocative because Johnson claims that Brexit will enhance the UK’s independence and prestige. But Macron argued that Brexit would leave the UK dependent on the US. He said:
The British are attached to being a great power, a member of the security council. The point can’t be to exit Europe and say ‘we’ll be stronger’, before in the end, becoming the junior partner of the United States, which are acting more and more hegemonically.The British are attached to being a great power, a member of the security council. The point can’t be to exit Europe and say ‘we’ll be stronger’, before in the end, becoming the junior partner of the United States, which are acting more and more hegemonically.
In a particularly neat twist, using the language of Brexiters to contest one of the main claims of the Brexit project, Macron even suggested that outside the EU, instead of being released from European vassalage, Britain would end up a vassal state of the US.In a particularly neat twist, using the language of Brexiters to contest one of the main claims of the Brexit project, Macron even suggested that outside the EU, instead of being released from European vassalage, Britain would end up a vassal state of the US.
Can the cost for Britain of a hard Brexit – because Britain will be the main victim – be offset by the United States of America? No.Can the cost for Britain of a hard Brexit – because Britain will be the main victim – be offset by the United States of America? No.
And even if it were a strategic choice it would be at the cost of a historic vassalisation of Britain. I don’t think this is what Boris Johnson wants. I don’t think it is what the British people want. I don’t think it’s the will of the British people … to become the junior partner of the US.And even if it were a strategic choice it would be at the cost of a historic vassalisation of Britain. I don’t think this is what Boris Johnson wants. I don’t think it is what the British people want. I don’t think it’s the will of the British people … to become the junior partner of the US.
There are more accounts of what Macron said at his briefing at the Guardian, at HuffPost, at Politico Europe and at Reuters.There are more accounts of what Macron said at his briefing at the Guardian, at HuffPost, at Politico Europe and at Reuters.
My colleague Angelique Chrisafis has written a preview of the Macron/Johnson meeting which has some very good background on their relationship. Here is an extract.My colleague Angelique Chrisafis has written a preview of the Macron/Johnson meeting which has some very good background on their relationship. Here is an extract.
Johnson began pinpointing France as a problem long before he became PM. While being filmed for a documentary last year when he was foreign secretary, he said of France: “Why are they trying to shaft us?” He called France “naughty children” on the issue of Europe. He later denied he had called the French “turds” over Brexit.Johnson began pinpointing France as a problem long before he became PM. While being filmed for a documentary last year when he was foreign secretary, he said of France: “Why are they trying to shaft us?” He called France “naughty children” on the issue of Europe. He later denied he had called the French “turds” over Brexit.
Johnson is well known in Paris for what the local media call his “French-bashing” for a domestic audience, notably as London mayor when he said his city’s bike scheme was a Rolls-Royce to Paris’s Citroën 2CV. He said the Socialist government at the time, with its proposed high tax rate on the very rich, had been “captured by sans-culottes” running a “tyranny” of the like not seen since the French Revolution.Johnson is well known in Paris for what the local media call his “French-bashing” for a domestic audience, notably as London mayor when he said his city’s bike scheme was a Rolls-Royce to Paris’s Citroën 2CV. He said the Socialist government at the time, with its proposed high tax rate on the very rich, had been “captured by sans-culottes” running a “tyranny” of the like not seen since the French Revolution.
“To be popular in the UK, do you always have to criticise the French?” one French interviewer asked him as mayor. “No, not at all,” he replied, saying he loved France.“To be popular in the UK, do you always have to criticise the French?” one French interviewer asked him as mayor. “No, not at all,” he replied, saying he loved France.
And here is her full article.And here is her full article.
Johnson and Macron to hold ‘frank’ Brexit talks in ParisJohnson and Macron to hold ‘frank’ Brexit talks in Paris
Johnson is due to meet Macron at 12pm UK time. They are not due to hold a press conference, but both leaders are expected to make short statements to the media.Johnson is due to meet Macron at 12pm UK time. They are not due to hold a press conference, but both leaders are expected to make short statements to the media.
Otherwise the diary is relatively light today. At 9.30am the Office for National Statistics is publishing migration figures, and at some point Liz Truss, the international trade secretary, is chairing the first meeting of the Freeports advisory panel.Otherwise the diary is relatively light today. At 9.30am the Office for National Statistics is publishing migration figures, and at some point Liz Truss, the international trade secretary, is chairing the first meeting of the Freeports advisory panel.
As usual, I will be covering breaking political news as it happens, as well as bringing you the best reaction, comment and analysis from the web. I plan to publish a summary when I wrap up.As usual, I will be covering breaking political news as it happens, as well as bringing you the best reaction, comment and analysis from the web. I plan to publish a summary when I wrap up.
You can read all the latest Guardian politics articles here. Here is the Politico Europe roundup of this morning’s political news. And here is the PoliticsHome list of today’s top 10 must-reads.You can read all the latest Guardian politics articles here. Here is the Politico Europe roundup of this morning’s political news. And here is the PoliticsHome list of today’s top 10 must-reads.
If you want to follow me or contact me on Twitter, I’m on @AndrewSparrow.If you want to follow me or contact me on Twitter, I’m on @AndrewSparrow.
I try to monitor the comments below the line (BTL) but it is impossible to read them all. If you have a direct question, do include “Andrew” in it somewhere and I’m more likely to find it. I do try to answer questions, and if they are of general interest, I will post the question and reply above the line (ATL), although I can’t promise to do this for everyone.I try to monitor the comments below the line (BTL) but it is impossible to read them all. If you have a direct question, do include “Andrew” in it somewhere and I’m more likely to find it. I do try to answer questions, and if they are of general interest, I will post the question and reply above the line (ATL), although I can’t promise to do this for everyone.
If you want to attract my attention quickly, it is probably better to use Twitter.If you want to attract my attention quickly, it is probably better to use Twitter.