British and German businesses are calling on EU negotiators to focus on the countries’ shared economic interests as the third round of Brexit negotiations starts in Brussels. In a joint statement, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and the Association of German Chambers of Commerce (DIHK) said German and British companies want clarity from the outset on the overall shape of the final settlement. A number of major issues relevant to businesses are yet to be resolved, including the rights of EU workers in Britain and British workers in the other 27 EU member states. A recent BCC survey showed that British firms prefer a longer transition period, with 68% advocating at least three years. Britain is the third-largest destination for German goods exports; while Germany is Britain’s second-largest goods and services exports market.

Source: The Guardian August 28, 2017 04:52 UTC