Michel Barnier says EU still waiting for 'concrete' proposals from UK

The European Union's chief Brexit negotiator said the bloc is still waiting for proposals from Prime Minister Boris Johnson to end the impasse over Britain's departure, which is due at the end of next month.

Michel Barnier told reporters that "we are still ready to examine objectively any concrete and legally operational proposals from the UK".

Mr Johnson's envoy David Frost has been holding talks in Brussels this week but no breakthrough has been made.

Mr Johnson wants the Irish border provision removed from a legally-binding Brexit agreement sealed by his predecessor.

The EU insists the so-called backstop must stay in so that goods can flow smoothly between member country Ireland and Northern Ireland when it leaves along with the rest of the UK.