I am delighted that the UK and EU negotiating teams met face to face in Brussels yesterday, with both sides having agreed to intensify talks on securing a new trade agreement before the end of 2020. This is vital for the residents of Great Yarmouth who voted overwhelmingly for us to leave the European Union and who demand a new relationship with Europe that sees British interests at the forefront.
We delivered on our promise to leave the European Union on 31 January and have been clear that we will not request an extension to the transition period ending on 31 December. Following recent discussions between the Prime Minister and the Presidents of the European Council, European Commission and European Parliament, the next round of negotiations began yesterday in Brussels, marking the start of the intensified process agreed by both sides.
We are looking to agree on a high-quality Free Trade Agreement based on the agreements the EU has already reached with other countries. Whatever happens, we will be ready for 1 January, when we will take back control of our laws, borders and money.