Brexit: Macron says EU could decide on Boris Johnson’s ‘final’ offer by end of this week
French President Emmanuel Macron has said the EU could make a decision on Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Brexit proposals by the end of the week.
Discussions between the two leaders yesterday saw Macron urge Johnson to engage in further discussions with the EU “swiftly” in order for the bloc to decide on the PM’s proposals this week.
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Downing Street officials said Johnson told his EU counterparts that this is their last chance to reach a deal, and called on the bloc to compromise, according to reports.
The PM reportedly added that his new proposals – which include a mooted alternative to the controversial Irish backstop – have parliament’s support.
The EU has previously said it is “unconvinced” by the PM’s suggestion that checks away from the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland could replace the backstop.
Last week Johnson rowed back from the government’s stance that this is his “final offer” on Brexit.
And Downing Street has warned the EU the UK could still pursue a no-deal Brexit on 31 October.
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That’s despite parliament passing a law called the Benn Act that seeks to force Johnson to ask for a Brexit delay if no deal is in sight.
Brexit minister Stephen Barclay yesterday said ministers are “considering” on whether or not to hold a vote in the Commons on Johnson’s offer ahead of the appropaching EU summit to make clear it has MPs’ support.
A Number 10 source told Sky News: “A senior Downing Street source said: “This is the chance to get a deal done – a deal that is backed by parliamentarians and a deal which involves compromise on all sides.”
Main image credit: Getty