Brexit transition deal is agreed

Chief EU negotiator Barnier says there must be a backstop solution on the Irish border

Michel Barnier addresses reporters after meeting British Brexit minister David Davis. Pic: Getty

Britain has clinched a deal that willbuy it time in Brexit talks in a move the European Union’s chief negotiator hailed as a decisive step. But it is all still contingent on finding a solution tothe most intractable issue of all - the Irish border.

The two sides reached an agreement for a 21-month transition period that is due to start on Brexit day in March next year, and said progress had also ...