Brexit news LIVE: Stephen Barclay points to UK and EU's 'common purpose' following talks with Michel Barnier

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay has emerged from "serious detailed discussions" with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier emphasising their "shared desire" to secure a deal.

Mr Barclay told reporters in Brussels that the technical teams had been "getting into the detail" of reaching a deal and would meet again next week.

Their meeting in Brussels follows European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker’s admission that the UK and EU could feasibly reach a viable withdrawal agreement by the Halloween deadline.

However, Irish deputy PM Simon Coveney dampened the spirit of optimism, insisting "we are not close to a deal right now" and there remains a “wide gap” between London and Dublin over a new withdrawal agreement.

The European Commission issued a statement following Mr Barclay and Mr Barnier's meeting, confirming that a “fully workable and legally operational solution” for the Irish border would have to be included in any withdrawal agreement.

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