China News Agency, London, October 16 - British Prime Minister Johnson stated on the 16th that the UK must "prepare" not to reach any trade agreement and leave the European Union.
According to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), Johnson told the media at the Prime Minister's Office in Downing Street that unless the EU "fundamentally" changes its course, the two sides will not be able to reach an agreement on a post-Brexit economic partnership.
"Given that the EU has refused to negotiate seriously for most of the past few months, my conclusion is that we should prepare for January 1 next year."
"There are only 10 weeks left before the deadline. I have to make judgments about the possible results and let us be prepared. Now is the time for our companies, transporters, and people to prepare." Johnson said.
Both the UK and the EU call on each other to compromise on key issues, including fishery rights and restrictions on government subsidies to enterprises.
Johnson said that he had made it clear that he hoped the EU would give the UK and Canada the same trade agreement, but these wishes were ignored at the EU leaders' summit.
Johnson did not disclose in his speech whether Britain is currently willing to withdraw from the negotiation process despite differences.
Britain has set the 15th of this month as a deadline to decide whether it is worthwhile to continue negotiations amid ongoing differences.
David Frost, the chief representative of the UK’s “Brexit” negotiations, said on Twitter on the 15th, “I am shocked that the EU is no longer committed to establishing a partnership, and I am disappointed with the European Commission. The UK is surprised that this is not a normal negotiation strategy."
According to reports, both the UK and the EU expressed their hope to continue the negotiation process.
The EU's chief "Brexit" negotiator Michel Barnier will start further consultations in London next week.
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