Barnier hits back at Johnson's attempts to split EU27 on Brexit deal

The EU's Brexit negotiator on Thursday accused UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson of attempting to split the blocs remaining 27 states by threatening a no-deal departure if the Irish backstop was not removed.

Johnson, who took power on Wednesday, has already said several times that the UK would have to prepare itself for a no-deal Brexit if the EU did not remove the backstop, which prevents a hard border with Ireland, from the current withdrawal deal.

In an email to the leaders of the remaining 27 member states, Barnier described Johnson's comments to the House of Commons on Thursday as “rather combative”.

“This is of course unacceptable and not within the mandate of the European Council,” Barnier wrote of Johnson's demands. “No deal will never be the EU’s choice, but we all have to be ready for all scenarios,” he said.

“We have to be ready for a situation where he gives priority to the planning for 'no deal' partly to heap pressure on the unity of the EU27.”

Barnier added that the EU was “ready to work constructively, within our own mandate” with the UK. “We will analyse any UK idea on withdrawal issues that are compatible with the existing Withdrawal Agreement,” he said.

However, Barnier said he also noted the “many strong reactions to the speech in the House of Commons” from UK MPs opposed to a no-deal outcome.

“In this context we must follow carefully the further political and economic reactions and developments in the UK following this speech,” he said.

“In any case, what remains essential on our side is to remain calm, stick to our principles and guidelines and show solidarity and unity of the 27,” he wrote. “I remain available throughout the summer for talks with the UK and of course with you should you have questions.”