The European Union on Thursday urged EU member countries and businesses to “step up preparations” for Britain's exit next year from the bloc, underlining fears the negotiations could fail and cause even greater disruption.
The appeal came before Britain's new Brexit negotiator Dominic Raab was due in Brussels following a rebellion in Prime Minister Theresa May's Government over strategy.
The European Commission, the EU's executive arm, urged “member states and private parties to step up preparations... For all outcomes” by the March 30 withdrawal deadline.
It said “there is still no certainty that there will be a ratified withdrawal agreement in place on that date,” even though the EU is working around the clock for a deal.