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Watch: David Davis trips over on his way off stage moments after promising a 'smooth and orderly exit'

Is this what a “smooth and orderly exit” looks like?

Moments after David Davis promised a steady withdrawal from the EU at an event called Deal Or No Deal, he found his own exit from the stage to be anything but.

The Brexit Secretary told an audience in London that the UK was prepared for the possibility of not securing a deal with Brussels.

He added that reaching an agreement was “far and away” the most likely outcome.

“I don’t think it would be in the interest for either side for there to be no deal. But as a responsible government it is right that we make every plan for every eventuality,” he said.

David Davis... shortly before slipping of the EU cliff edge (Rex)
David Davis… shortly before slipping of the EU cliff edge (Rex)

He argued that the transition period after the end of Article 50 would be an opportunity for UK and EU businesses to “get their houses in order”.

Mr Davis said: “This is not the UK staying in the EU for perpetuity. We will be a third country and we will act as one.

“We are clear this transition period will have a strict time period.

“That way we can deliver on a historic referendum result and leave the EU – but make sure the exit is done in a smooth and orderly manner.”

He then tripped over.

Many on Twitter were quick to say that the stumble was a metaphor for how Brexit negotiations are going, on a day when the government once again ceded ground.

Reports suggest Britain is planning to offer more money to settle its bill with the EU in order to continue negotiations.

Britain has previously offered about €20bn (£18bn), but the EU wants at least €60bn (£53bn) — with May reportedly willing to offer £40bn.

Theresa May’s office declined to confirm the amount, but said “the UK and the EU should step forward together” to unblock the negotiations.

“It remains our position that nothing’s agreed until everything’s agreed in negotiations with the EU,” the Prime Minister’s office added.

Some backbench Conservative MPs have reacted angrily. Nigel Evans described it as a “ransom payment”.