16:21

Theresa May’s spokeswoman has rejected as “categorically untrue” the suggestion that the proposed Brexit plan would make it impossible to then make a new trade deal with the US – but would not comment on the idea it could become more difficult.

Asked about the Spectator report (see 3.30pm), she said:



The PM has always been clear that we will seek a comprehensive and ambitious trade deal with the US that reflects the strength of our trading and investment relationship, and as you know the president has also made it clear that he is keen to sit down and talk with the UK about that. And the PM and the president will obviously have a chance to discuss trade next week … What I can be very clear on is that it is categorically untrue to suggest that we will not be able to strike a trade deal with the US.

The spokeswoman said she would not “get into speculation” about what might or might not be in a Brexit deal. Asked if she could rule out May’s plan making a trade deal with the US more difficult, she said: “I’ve given the answer. I’m not going to go any further on that.”

