Washington

THE Trump administration this week will begin laying groundwork for a trade deal between the United States and the UK that would take effect after Britain leaves the European Union, a White House aide said.

British Prime Minister Theresa May last week declared the country was "open for business" as she announced plans to pursue a clean break with the EU, paving the way for the United Kingdom to eventually strike new trade accords with the continent and other countries. Mrs May is to visit Washington this week.