The UK will refused to delay the Brexit deadline in any way despite the coronavirus pandemic, Downing Street said today. Boris Johnson's official spokesman said the UK will not ask to extend the transition period beyond December 31.
And even if EU chiefs ask for an extension the UK will refuse, the spokesman declared today. Furious pro-EU MPs branded the decision "beyond reckless" in the middle of a killer disease outbreak.
The transition period stops current trade, travel and data-sharing rules with the EU coming to a halt. If the UK and EU agree a trade deal before New Year's Eve that won't be a problem, but that possibility is looking less and less likely due to coronavirus.