Brexit negotiations between the EU and UK look to be on the point of breakdown with EU chief negotiator, Michel Barnier saying on Wednesday that the EU is not in a position where an agreement can be reached. This follows rejection of proposals by the UK prime minister to allow Northern Ireland remain aligned to EU standards but leave the customs union with the rest of the UK

If there is no agreement, the UK parliament has passed legislation requiring the government to seek a further extension of UK membership rather than leave without a deal on 31 October. To secure a further extension, all 27 members of the EU have to consent, but if one opposes it, the UK will crash out of the EU on 31 October.