The chancellor, burnishing his credentials as an opponent of a hard Brexit, was hopeful a deal was possible that allowed all European nationals to remain in the UK and for UK nationals to remain in the EU. Hammond is understood to be battling inside cabinet for a more emollient negotiating position with Brussels ahead of Theresa May invoking article 50 by March, which begins the two-year process of leaving the EU. Asked by MPs on the Treasury select committee about reports that the cabinet is split, Hammond appeared to take a swipe at his Tory rivals. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Theresa May’s apparent commitment to a hard Brexit has spooked many in the City. If we were to do that, we would have no negotiating position.”

Source: The Guardian October 19, 2016 19:48 UTC