New UK/EU deal about to be unveiled

Following months of tense negotiations, officials in Brussels are believed to be finalising the details of a UK/EU trade deal that will come into effect next week, reports the BBC. Britain’s Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, is expected to talk to the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen by telephone to complete the deal.

Last-minute haggling delayed the announcement, but a press conference at Downing Street is scheduled for today. The deal ends the nightmare scenario of widespread import taxes on goods moving to and from the continent and smooths the way for a close working relationship between Britain and the rest of Europe.

The deal also encompasses the question of fishing rights. New fishing agreements are likely to be phased in over the next five years, but it seems likely that Britain will be allowed to harvest two-thirds of UK-waters catch quotas.