Rolling coverage of the day’s political developments as they happen
2.21pm BST
Michel Barnier, the EU‘s chief Brexit negotiator, has been in Cyprus where he has warned that the bloc is preparing for a no-deal – even if it is a scenario that would not be of its choice. He told journalists:
We have offered all options to the United Kingdom, from the single market to the customs union or a free trade agreement. We are now waiting for clarity from the United Kingdom. In the meantime, we keep preparing for a no-deal. This is not, and will not be, the EU‘s choice. It is for the UK to take its responsibilities.
Whatever happens and whatever the political situation in the UK, the issues and solutions remain the same.
Let me be clear: if the UK still wants, ratifying the withdrawal agreement is the only way to secure a transition period. That period of transition would give the United Kingdom time to sort out its negotiation positions. This transition period would also give time to both sides to figure out what specific arrangements are necessary in relation to the Northern Irish border on top of the overall EU/UK relationship.
2.13pm BST
The Electoral Commission has said it will visit the Brexit party offices tomorrow to check it is complying with the electoral law about donations, the BBC‘s Jessica Parker reports.
Electoral Commission to “visit” the Brexit Party’s office tomorrow and “conduct a review” of its donations system pic.twitter.com/au0uFFHkXg
Source: Nigel Farage hit by milkshake in Newcastle – live news
