Macron splits from Brussels over fisheries

This has thrown EU negotiator Michel Barnier’s plans to reach a compromise with Britain into chaos.

Ms de Montchalin said: “We need to complete the negotiation in four months, which objectively seems difficult to achieve.

“We must without delay prepare for all scenarios, especially that of a no deal.”

Brexit talks have largely stalled in recent weeks, with both sides blaming the other for the lack of progress.

At the same time, France has become more hardline in its Brexit demands, despite Mr Barnier calling for the EU to give in on key areas like fisheries.

In a report approved by the National Assemblys European affairs committee this week, French lawmakers urged President Macrons government to fight to keep French fishermens right to work in British waters.

Jean-Pierre Pont, a member of parliament for Mr Macrons party, wrote the report that read: “The EU must continue to guarantee that fishing wont be sacrificed to save other sectors.”

Mr Pont later added: “The Government must stay as firm as possible.

“Britain cant be better off outside than inside.”

Mr Macron’s foreign minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian also warned he was determined to defend access to British waters.

Boris Johnson will hold post-Brexit trade talks with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen from Monday next week.

A UK Government spokesman said both sides had agreed an “intensified” schedule of weekly talks throughout July.

The UK has repeatedly said it will not agree to an extension, despite EU pressure.

In one major U-turn from the British side, the Government is now expected to apply much less strict EU border checks on imports than it initially had planned once the Brexit transition period finishes.

The Financial Times reports ministers have abandoned plans to introduce full checks after pressure from businesses.