Britain’s Cameron arrives in Brussels as Brexit talks reach critical phase

David Cameron has arrived in Brussels in his bid to win backing for his draft deal on reforming Britain’s membership of the EU. The continuing diplomatic moves come ahead of a crucial summit at which the British Prime Minister aims to secure the support of EU leaders for the proposals, which would pave the way for an in-out referendum in June. Mr Cameron met the French President Francois Hollande in Paris on Monday night where the two leaders agreed the offer on the table provided a “firm basis” to reach a deal this week.

It is high time we started listening to each other’s arguments more than our own. The risk of a break-up is real because this process is indeed very fragile and must be handled with care.

Donald Tusk

Earlier, EU Council president Donald Tusk said the talks on reforming the 28-member bloc are at a “critical” stage and there is a “real risk” that the EU could break up. Mr Cameron is due to meet European Parliament president Martin Schulz and certain MEPs, including the leaders of the main groupings - but not UKIP’s Nigel Farage. Mr Cameron is seeking a number of reforms for Britain ahead of an in-out referendum to be held in the summer.

Brexit