The EU’s chief negotiator, Michel Barnier warned of “very serious divergences” on Thursday after there are five areas of disagreement in the first round of post Brexit trade talks.

After both sides have failed to agree on five areas, this currently is preventing a deal being struck for the free trade agreement.

Barnier said, “Our differences come as no surprise, especially after one round of negotiations but some are very, very difficult.

“I continue to believe we can reach a good agreement for both sides, the past few days have been constructive.”

The Barnier and David Frost, the UKs negotiator have failed to agree on fisheries, the criminal justice and law enforcement and the overall structure of the free trade deal.

Despite the differences Barnier added, “An agreement is possible, even if difficult.”

UK negotiators asked the EU to consider annual talks to form a fisheries agreement.

Barnier disregarded this option saying, “What we can do with Norway on five species simply isn’t possible for 100 species.

“The economic agreement will have to include a balanced solution for fisheries.”

On Wednesday, George Eustice the government’s fishing minister gave a stark warning to the European Union, the Royal Navy will be sent out to protect UK waters from EU fishing trawlers.

The Home Office are to provide four vessels and the Royal Navy will provide three more vessels to protect our waters, Eustice said.

Fears are growing of a French blockade as on Monday Emmanuel Macron the French president declared war over fisheries. He warned, French fishermen will block all cross-Channel ports if the British government does not agree a fishing trade deal with the EU.