'REALLY?' Shock even in Brussels that Corbyn's meeting with EU's Barnier will be 2.5 HOURS
JEREMY Corbyn is set for a mammoth Brexit meeting with the European Union’s chief negotiator Michael Barnier.
Corbyn arrives in Brussels ahead of meeting Barnier
The Brussels heavyweight has been accused of political mind games by agreeing to meet with the Labour leader, as well as Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
These meetings have raised eyebrows given neither of the party leaders will have a seat at the Brexit negotiating table over the next two years, barring another election.
One Commission source was reported by the Telegraph replying 'really?!' when told Mr Barnier's meeting with the Labour leader would be for two and a half hours.
Despite repeated requests to be given a say on negotiations, Ms Sturgeon will have no official role in talks. Mr Corbyn will also remain at home during EU-UK discussions.
Michael Barnier has planned a Brexit meeting with Jeremy Corbyn
Mr Corbyn has been keen to avoid the Government’s official line that no exit deal is better than a good deal. He has consistently called for ongoing partnership between the UK and the European Union and a fair exit deal.
Michel Barnier will meet Jeremy Corbyn and Nicola Sturgeon to discuss Brexit
He said last week: “Fundamentally we want to make sure there is a tariff-free trade access to the European market because it is crucial. Half of our trade is with Europe.”
However, while Mr Barnier seems keen to cause disruption in Westminster by meeting various party leaders, he is careful to keep Mr Corbyn and Ms Sturgeon firmly under his control.
Michel Barnier: I will ONLY negotiate with UK government
Yesterday he issued a stern warning to the pair, telling them he was happy to meet but would only negotiate with Prime Minister Theresa May.
Speaking in Brussels yesterday lunchtime, he said: “I have always made it clear that I want to listen to the different points of view in the British debate, it is only natural.
Jeremy Corbyn said the UK must negotiate a good deal with the EU
"Tomorrow I will meet, at their request, Jeremy Corbyn and Nicola Sturgeon and Carywn Jones.
"Of course I will only negotiate with the UK Government."