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Health Secretary Matt Hancock issued a warning to chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier during the Friday coronavirus briefing. During the briefing, Mr Hancock was asked by BBC’s Health Editor Hugh Pym about the possibility of a no deal Brexit if trade talks continue to struggle. Mr Pym said: “Michel Barnier has said trade talks between the UK and EU are not progressing well, what do you think are the chances of a no deal?”

Mr Hancock replied: “I very much do hope that we avoid a no deal Brexit.

“Our position is very reasonable and it is that any agreement we reach must reflect the fact that the UK is an independent sovereign state.

“We are working very hard and will accelerate the work to make progress in talks by the end of the year so that we can put into place the vision that has already been agreed between the UK and EU, based on the political declaration.” 

He also emphasised the importance of proceeding forward with the talks due to the impact of coronavirus. 

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He continued: “I spend all my time working on coronavirus.

“I think that given the time that has passed, it is time for both sides to work together.

“We are willing to accelerate that work and get that final agreement based on a vision that has been agreed and then we can progress.” 

More to follow… 

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