The main hopes for the UK after pushing ahead with Brexit, is to reach a trade deal with the EU by the end of the year. But, the EU refused a quick template for a trade deal with the UK, such as Japan, Norway or Canada style deals yesterday, as I highlighted earlier today.

Now, UK officials are playing tough, saying that they can go on without a deal. This seems similar to the Brexit negotiation, so deja vu much anyone? Today, the UK affirmed that it is willing to trade on no-deal basis if talks with EU fails. The UK published its negotiating mandate for trade talks with the EU:

UK’s negotiating mandate with the EU

• Trade deal should be based on Canada, Japan-style deals
• UK will not extend Brexit transition period with the EU
• To decide by June if a deal is possible before December deadline
• To start no-deal preparations if an accord is not clear by June
• Wants broad outline of trade deal to be clear by June
• Will not sign up to alignment on EU rules, regulations

UK Cabinet minister, Michael Gove, comments

• There is ample time to strike a deal with the EU
• We want the best possible trading ties with the EU

EU’s Barnier Commenting on UK-EU deal

• We take note of the UK’s negotiating mandate published today
• Will discuss respective positions on Monday
• Will stick with prior commitments in political declaration