UK and EU officials to discuss freedom of movement
UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds confirmed that officials are discussing future relationship options with the EU, including the possibility of free movement. While the government is currently focused on trade and youth mobility deals, they have not ruled out broader discussions for the future.
Why it matters
This signals a potential shift in the UK's post-Brexit strategy, as the government begins to explore long-term alignment options with the EU despite previous manifesto commitments.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds says no "assumptions" have been made about what the future UK-EU relationship could look like
British and European officials will discuss the future options for the UK's relationship with the EU, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has told the BBC.
Officials on both sides are expected to begin discussions about a range of options, including free movement, before the EU summit on 20 November.
However, Downing Street has insisted the government's current focus is on achieving new deals in areas such as food and youth mobility at the summit.
Reynolds said no "assumptions" had been made about what the UK's future relationship with Brussels could look like.
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