Britain 'will pay EU billions more' to buy time for new post-Brexit free trade deal

Sam Lowe, the trade specialist the Centre for European Reform said that having a trade agreement completed and ready to go by the end of 2020 was “a very tall order”. 

“Even if Mr Johnson seeks a ‘bare bones’ FTA, there will still need to be complex discussion on level playing field issues, as well as agreements on a plethora of other areas, such as defence co-operation, justice and home affairs, scientific research and a framework agreement to bind them all together.”

“It’s a lot to do in a year, especially as we’re likely to spend a good part of it arguing amongst ourselves and holding a General Election,” he added.