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Talks about Brexit have continued overnight as hopes were raised that a trade deal could finally be reached.
Sources in London and Brussels told Sky News late Wednesday that a deal could be close.
Eric Mamer, the chief spokesperson for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, tweeted to say that “Brexit work will continue throughout the night.”
He added: “All Brexit watchers are advised to get some sleep at this time.
“Hopefully it will be an early start tomorrow morning.”
A late-night pizza delivery was previously seen at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels.
Meanwhile, Sky News understands that a call was made to Boris Johnson’s cabinet last night to update them on the status of the talks.
Britain left the EU in late January and entered an 11-month transition period, following EU rules and regulations while trying to negotiate a free trade deal by the end of this year.
But a number of sticking points have emerged during the negotiations, raising the possibility of a no-deal Brexit.
These include fishing rights and the so-called “level playing field” – measures to prevent what is considered unfair competition by lowering standards or using state subsidies.
The prime minister has acknowledged that a no-deal Brexit “may be difficult at first,” but has argued that the UK would “thrive mightily” in such a scenario if it happens.
But opponents say that leaving without a deal and consequently having to negotiate under the terms of the World Trade Organization as of January 1 would cause problems for businesses and raise prices for consumers.
Both sides had set a deadline in mid-October to reach a trade deal, with the expectation that it would take time later for the final version to be examined and voted on.
Parliament needs to ratify an agreement if an agreement is reached, but it has already been broken by Christmas.
However, Sky News has been told that the MPs could be removed on December 30 to approve any last minute deals.
A senior EU diplomat told the Reuters news agency on Wednesday that member states should approve the provisional application of a deal because there is not enough time for the EU Parliament to ratify a deal.
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