EU sources report Brexit negotiation 'standstill'

Last-ditch Brexit negotiations have come to a standstill according to EU sources.

And, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said on Wednesday (October 16) that talks so far have failed to resolve the issues standing in the way of a civilized divorce.

The sticking points for both sides? Trade and the status of the Irish border.

Talks have dragged on and any hope of a deal could be shattered if the British House of Commons fail to approve it later down the line.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has repeatedly vowed to take Britain out of the EU on October 31, with or without a deal.

A message reiterated by Brexit minister Stephen Barclay, who said earlier on Wednesday that he would not accept a Brexit delay, even if it was only used to tie up the necessary legal requirements of an agreement.

If no compromise can be met the EU believes the UK will be forced to delay its departure for a third time.

They may hold an emergency summit later in October to either approve a deal, grant an extension, or make preparations for a chaotic departure.