Britain's Hammond says 'growth and jobs' Brexit priority

[LUXEMBOURG] British Finance Minister Philip Hammond on Friday said London Britain must prioritise prosperity in Brexit talks with the EU that begin next week in Brussels.

"My clear view and I believe the view of the majority of people in Great Britain is we should be protecting jobs, protecting economic growth and protecting prosperity," Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr Hammond said as he arrived for regular talks with his EU counterparts in Luxembourg.

"I can confirm as we enter negotiations next week we will do so in a spirit of sincere cooperation, taking a pragmatic approach, trying to find a solution that works for the UK and the EU 27," he said, referring to the bloc's remaining 27 members.

Britain and the European Union will start less than two years of Brexit negotiations on Monday despite Prime Minister Theresa May still short of confirming her minority government following her election fiasco.

Mrs May's ruling Conservative party is split more than ever between an anti-EU wing that seeks a radical break from the bloc, and moderates who insist on maintaining close trade ties with Europe.

Mr Hammond is widely perceived to be a moderate and his call to prioritise the economy will be interpreted in London as a call for close links and appeased relations with the EU after Brexit.

AFP