The EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier had a member of his team test positive for coronavirus which suspended talks.
Under Belgium rules anyone who has tested positive, anyone else who has been in close contact must self-isolate for up to ten days.
Barnier was forced to suspended Brexit talks and abandon face-to-face talks with Lord Frost the, UK’s chief negotiator.
Barnier said, “One of the negotiators in my team has tested positive for COVID-19.
“With David Frost we decided to suspend the negotiations at our level for a short period.
“The teams will continue their work in full respect of guidelines.”
Lord Frost was in “close contact” with Barnier to ensure the situation doesn’t derail the negotiations.
He added, “The health of our teams comes first. I would like to thank the European Commission for their immediate help and support.”
A Government spokesman said, “The Commission has informed us that an official in their delegation has tested positive for COVID-19.
“We are discussing with them the implications for the negotiations.
“We have been, and will continue to, act in line with public health guidelines to ensure the health and welfare of our teams.”
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