Matt Bevington: Barnier doesn’t need a new mandate to find compromises

The UK itself would not dream of changing its formal negotiating objectives at such a crucial point in the talks. Why would the EU?

Labour are divided over an EU deal, but no-deal Brexit would pose its own problem for Starmer

He risks appearing either to endorse whatever EU demands ended up making Johnson walk away, or being left with no good reason to oppose his doing so.

Stephen Booth: As the Brexit deadline nears, the UK stands strong on fishing rights, but Frost hints at movement on state aid

All eyes will be on Emmanuel Macron this week, since France has been most prepared to play hardball.

David Skelton: Brexit can unleash a new era of reindustrialisation. But only if we are free from state aid laws.

This renaissance could place the UK at the vanguard of the most industries and technologies over the coming decades.

Stephen Booth: With four months left to get a Brexit deal, state aid is the major stumbling block for the UK and EU.

At the start of the summer there were reasons for optimism about an agreement. However, the mood appears to have turned.

Tom Harris: Scottish Labour’s continuing capitulation to nationalism reeks of political desperation

It seems to gaze upon the SNP’s seemingly unstoppable rise and conclude that Sturgeon’s party is doing something right.

Stephen Booth: The UK’s parallel trade negotiations are of unprecedented ambition

While working on its Brexit deal, it is simultaneously cultivating trade relationships with Japan, the US, Australia and New Zealand.

David Gauke: Without a proper state aid regime, the UK is unlikely to reach a deal with Brussels

Even putting aside the EU dimension, there are very good arguments for having one in place.