A European Commission spokesperson said today that the bloc was still hoping to avoid no-deal Brexit. But EU is prepared for such an outcome. She noted that “a no-deal scenario is not our preferred option,” but reiterated that the current withdrawal agreement was the “best possible” one. And, “our no-deal preparedness protects the EU 27 and the interests in the case of a no-deal Brexit,”
She also noted that the Commission does remain available over the coming weeks should the United Kingdom wish to hold talks and clarify its position in more detail, whether by phone or in person.”
Earlier, The Guardian reported that no-deal Brexit is now UK government’s central scenario. An unnamed EU official was quoted saying the UK has ““no intention to negotiate, which would require a plan”.
