Brexit negotiations begin as David Davis heads to Brussels

Brexit negotiations are due to formally begin on on Monday, with Brexit Secretary David Davis heading to Brussels with the aim of forging a “deep and special partnership”.

Davis will meet with the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier in Belgium to begin the process, with talks are due to get under way at 10:00 BST.

“Today marks the start of negotiations that will shape the future of the European Union and the United Kingdom, and the lives of our citizens,” Davis is expected to say.

“While there is a long road ahead, our destination is clear — a deep and special partnership between the UK and the EU. A deal like no other in history.”

Theresa May is pressing ahead with her Brexit schedule despite political chaos within her own party. After losing her majority in the House of Commons earlier this month, May has faced criticism from senior Cabinet members and growing pressure to drop her plans for a “Hard Brexit”. Her mandate is weaker still after failing to agree a “confidence and supply” deal with the DUP .

May’s plan for Brexit involves leaving the Customs Union and preventing Freedom of Movement between the EU and the UK, as well as leaving the European Court of Justice.