The controversial Irish backstop will be "overwritten" if a solution can be found to get a Brexit deal, German chancellor Angela Merkel has said.

She was speaking in her final press conference in Germany ahead of her holiday break.

She said the UK would always remain a partner of the EU after its departure.

The veteran leader said work with Theresa May's successor would depend on how they approach the European Commission after their appointment.

The EU has consistently said the withdrawal agreement - which contained the backstop - is not up for renegotiation.

The deal brokered with the EU and Theresa May set out the terms of the UK's departure ahead of future trade talks.

Belfast Telegraph