The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has tested positive for coronavirus, he revealed today.
His diagnosis casts further doubt over the process of negotiating a Brexit trade deal between the EU and the UK.
Face-to-face Brexit talks in London had already been cancelled this week so it is unlikely UK officials were infected.
The Mirror understands Boris Johnson is now prepared to break his pledge to end the transition period on December 31 due to the outbreak – continuing EU rules for longer.
Yesterday he would only say the date had been “legislated for” and did not commit to it definitely happening on time.
Mr Barnier tweeted: “I would like to inform you that I have tested positive for #COVID19.
“I am doing well and in good spirits. I am following all the necessary instructions, as is my team.
“For all those affected already, and for all those currently in isolation, we will get through this together.”Yesterday i tested positive for Covid-19. I’ll now be entering self isolation.
“I would like to offer my solidarity to all the families affected by this very serious virus.
“I also want to offer my thanks and respect to all the healthcare workers. They are doing a fantastic job.
“To win this battle against we must think and act collectively. We can leave this crisis stronger than before.”
