Boris Johnson’s top Brexit adviser will meet with EU Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic to discuss the ongoing issues with our divorce deal’s protocol to avoid a hard border. The pair have “significant differences” to overcome when they sit down on Thursday evening, according to Government insiders. This will be their first face-to-face meeting since the outbreak of violent disruption in Unionist areas of Northern Ireland.
Loyalists are said to be furious that the Brexit deal’s Northern Ireland protocol has created a border between the region and mainland Britain.
A UK Government spokeswoman said: “Technical engagement with the EU in relation to the Protocol had continued over recent days and we remain in regular contact at all levels.
“The discussions have been constructive but there are still significant differences that need to be resolved.”
The aide added: “Both the UK and EU are engaging with business, civil society and other stakeholders in Northern Ireland, to understand the issues they are facing.
“The UK remains committed to working through the outstanding issues in order to restore confidence on the ground in Northern Ireland , reflect the needs of communities and respect all dimensions of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement.”
